BCBS “Walk at Lunch” April 24 – To Help Grow Game and Parks Foundation

Nebraskans can lower their risk of heart disease, lose weight and sleep better simply by walking. And now they can also help grow the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) donating $20 to Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation for every organization that participates in the “Walk at Lunch” event.

Contributions to the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation have had a profound effect on the quality of Nebraska’s outdoor recreation resources. For a more information on the foundation and the projects made possible through tax-deductible donations visit the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation’s Success Stories web page.

The 7th annual National Walk at Lunch Day, set this year for Wed., April 24, is a fun way to rally all Nebraskans to participate in “Walk at Lunch”, and encourage them to make walking–or any regular physical activity–a lifelong healthy habit.

Schools, businesses, other organizations and individuals can visit www.nebraskablue.com to register and learn more about this event.

Anyone can register and organize a walk for the event.  The registration page gives Nebraskans access to helpful information in planning a walk event, and will help BCBSNE track participants.  Here’s some good information to share on the benefits of walking.

“Our state has 1,236 miles of trails for Nebraskans to use and enjoy, and we are happy to support the Foundation in maintaining and/or expanding them as needed,” said Kathy Nellor, BCBSNE wellness business consultant.

Walk at Lunch has become one of the state’s largest health events. In 2012, nearly 37,000 Nebraskans registered to take a 30-minute walk at lunch. Most walked with their business or school; 366 organizations and 400 individuals from 70 Nebraska communities participated.

Participation is simple: Businesses and schools organize their own walks, choosing a time and place that is most convenient, while individuals walk at their leisure.

“We’re thrilled to see more people walk at lunch each year, including students and staff from 60 Nebraska schools last year,” Nellor said. “Walking is a simple form of exercise that people of all ages can do and benefit from.”

For questions, contact Nate Odgaard at nathan.odgaard@nebraskablue.com or (402) 982-6528.