Step into spring: Let's get WalkIN!

With sunshine in full swing and summer just around the corner, it's the perfect time to get outside, soak up some fresh air and get moving. One of the easiest—and most effective—ways to boost your health is by simply going for a walk.

According to Purdue Extension, walking just 30 minutes a day can help improve heart health, lower blood pressure, reduce stress and even support weight control. Best of all? It's free, easy on the joints and a great mood booster.

Hi! I'm Jamie Jo Lowder, and I'm proud to serve the Owen County community with programs related to food, family, finance and health. I'm here to help you live your best (and healthiest) life, and this spring, we've got something exciting to help you step in the right direction.

Purdue Extension-Owen County and the Owen County Health Department are teaming up this May to bring you a fun, flexible walking challenge that's all about getting active, feeling great, and even winning prizes.

The Get WalkIN Program takes place May 5 through June 30, Monday to Friday, from noon to 1 p.m. on the Owen County Courthouse square.

How to participate:

• Walk around the courthouse square—or choose your own route!

• Sign in at the security check-in to track your minutes. County employees off-site can log minutes with their department heads.

• Optional weigh-ins and measurements will be available on May 5, May 30 and June 30, courtesy of the Owen County Health Department. All info is kept confidential.

• Surprise incentives will be given out randomly throughout the challenge!

• Complete 80 percent or 33 days of the program to be entered into a grand prize drawing, which includes: a state park pass and a three-month YMCA membership.

The program is supported by local sponsors, to be announced at the kickoff!

So, grab your walking shoes and come join us—your heart, mind and body will thank you.

Other upcoming programs you won't want to miss include:

May 6 – Teen Chefs, 4 p.m., at the Owen County Public Library. Learn cooking skills and food safety. Call 812-829-3392 to register.

May 14 – Preserve It Now… Enjoy It Later – Jams & Jellies Workshop, noon to 4 p.m. at the Spencer United Methodist Church. Hands-on workshop teaching the boiling water bath technique and jam/jelly science. Registration includes resources, kitchen time and a sample to take home! Register by May 7 at https://cvent.me/bzkx75 or call 812-829-5020.

May 15 & 29 – Hero Story Time, 10 a.m. at the Owen County Public Library. Preschool program teaching kindness, friendship and behavior basics. Call the library to register.

May 15 – Junior Chefs (Ages 8 to 12), 4 p.m. at the Owen County Public Library. Fun with cooking and food safety! Register at 812-829-3392.

May 23 – Container Gardening Workshop – Make and Take, 3 to 5 p.m. at the Owen County Health Department (parking lot). Plant your own veggie to take home and learn container gardening basics.

June 9 – A Matter of Balance (eight-week program), 10 a.m. to noon at the Owen County Public Library. A practical program focused on managing falls and staying independent. Register at https://cvent.me/m2MRoZ or call 812-829-5020.

And this is just the beginning! Keep an eye on our Purdue Extension-Owen County Facebook page and website for more programs added throughout the season.

Interested in bringing a program to your group or organization? Whether it's food, health, family or finance—we've got you covered. Email me at lowder0@purdue.edu and let's plan something together.

Let's make this spring your healthiest and happiest yet—see you out there!