We Walk PHL
We Walk PHL is so much more than a walk in the park. This network offers free weekly walking groups, co-led by local volunteers, at public parks throughout Philadelphia. We Walk PHL promotes health outcomes, increases use of Philadelphia’s parks, and creates opportunities for people to pursue fitness goals while meeting their neighbors.
Since 2021, the program has expanded from 14 to 29 park locations across the city, where guided walks are led by community-recruited, volunteer leaders who receive training from program staff. In surveys, 91% of walkers reported improved mental health, 87% reported improved physical health, and 86% reported forming relationships in the program that lasted beyond We Walk PHL.
We Walk PHL often serves as an entry point for residents to become more engaged with their local parks, and has formed a citywide community of enthusiastic walkers who share a Facebook group and will “park hop” to other neighborhoods to meet each other and go for a stroll.
Voices of We Walk PHL
Recognition:
“Keep Moving, Whatever You Do”, The Philadelphia Citizen, June 2025
Fitness, friendship, and safety: That’s the We Walk PHL method, Germantown Info Hub, September 2024
Community walking initiative returns to nearly 20 Philly parks, KYW, May 2023
A walk in the park: We Walk PHL walking group promotes fitness, community, 6ABC, August 2022
“We Walk PHL is awesome. It’s a great way to enjoy the beauty outside. It’s free and a great way to reduce stress. I have lost a few pounds and gained a few friends.”
Credits:
Program Partners: Fairmount Park Conservancy, Philadelphia Department of Health, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation
Photography: Albert Yee Photo, We Walk PHL participants
