Minneapolis Parks Foundation's Walk & Talk Series
Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at 2:58AMArticle by Becky Fillinger
Jennifer DownhamDo you enjoy learning more about the gorgeous park system we have in Minneapolis? Do you like walking with friends? If yes, you are a prime candidate for the innovative Walk & Talk Series by the Minneapolis Parks Foundation. We spoke to Jennifer Downham, Chief Development Officer, about the program and different ways to participate.
Q: Please tell us more about the Minneapolis Parks Foundation Walk & Talk Series.
A: Walk & Talks are small casually-curated leisurely walks in Minneapolis parks. We started these walks in 2018 as a way to bring together park supporters (these are first offered to donors of the Parks Foundation, and then to the general public) and share insights into various park histories, current park efforts, hidden gems, etc. During the pandemic we created a one-page "download and go" version of each walk for everyone to access and do on their own. We also began creating a digital "story map" version that offers more images and supplemental narrative. These DIY editions have been very popular! If there are any audiophiles or recording engineers out there that would like to help us record the walks, we would love to eventually include audio.
Q: I know there is a "walk and talk therapy" that is part of the eco-psychotherapy umbrella - which combines outdoor activity with psychotherapy. While not a mental health offering per se, does the Foundation also promote the mental health benefits of the Walk and Talks program?
A: One Minneapolis Parks Foundation "guiding themes" is community health and well-being. It has been more widely understood recently that being outside and close to nature brings numerous health benefits. Our Walk & Talks are our small attempt to encourage healthy habits and support bringing community together, all part of mental health.
Q: How many programs are planned for this year? Do you foresee programs like this in the colder months too?
A: Currently we are doing four walks per year, in the summer months. We did Farview Park to the Mississippi Overlook at 26th Avenue N in May. June is Hall's Island. July is Lake Nokomis Park and August will be North Commons Park.
We did add a winter walk this February as an extension of our Next Generation of Parks series. Ambreen Tariq hosted a group along the Mississippi at North Mississippi Regional Park talking about the social and emotional health of getting outside, specifically through a BIPOC lens. And, again, given the success of that walk, we are planning to sprinkle in walks in other seasons going forward.
Q: How do we register for the program?
A: There are a few ways to enjoy Walk and Talks:
1. Become a Parks Foundation donor and you will receive email invitations to register.
2. Join the Parks Foundation mailing list and you will receive updates on when new walks are available.
3. Keep an eye on our Walk & Talk page. The download-and-go and StoryMaps are always available.
Q: You have sponsors for the program - congratulations! How did you approach them to be part of the program?
A: Like most sponsorship programs, it's about relationships and overlapping missions and goals. Growing support happens gradually and with a consistent and quality product or experience. And, don't forget to offer the opportunity!
Q: How may we follow your news?
A: Join the Parks Foundation mailing list and you will receive a monthly enews!
