Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Florence Bowser Elementary School set the pace as the Ladies of Distinction Character Education/Mentor Program engaged in a healthy competition to observe American Heart Month.

From Feb. 7-11, in fulfillment of the organization’s mission of developing holistically healthy girls and women, members were encouraged to log their steps. Participants were given custom Walk In It Inc. trackers and encouraged to become more intentional about their social, emotional, mental and physical health. In only five days, ladies of distinction and supporters logged over 1.5 million steps. Suffolk’s Bowser Elementary led the way with 590,846 steps.

When asked about the key to their success, one of the Bowser site coordinators, Tora Sweat, credited Principal Melodie Griffin and outstanding team work.

The Ladies of Distinction Program serves girls in grades 4-12 in Suffolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Southampton County, Franklin and Gates County, North Carolina.

King’s Fork Middle School participants logged 290,639 steps. Nansemond River High participants logged 51,139 steps.

“While we are always committed to our mission and program offerings, it is particularly important to offer multiple positive engagement opportunities. During a time when many are struggling with feelings of isolation, anxiety, and stress, we were eager to offer this collective initiative,” said Ladies of Distinction founder and Executive Director Dr. Jennell Riddick.

On Friday, Feb. 18, Riddick surprised the top sites with treats and the official announcement of their success.

Walk In It Inc. plans to host another walk challenge in the spring.