Evanston residents can lace up and log steps starting Wednesday, July 1, when local nonprofit True North Treks kicks off its annual "Step It Up!" walking challenge.
The free challenge runs through Monday, August 31, and is open to participants across the country, according to ABC7 Chicago. New this year: team competitions.
ABC7 meteorologist Jaisol Martinez has joined the challenge and created a public team called "Jaisol's Mighty Soles" that anyone can join through the free StepUp app.
How to sign up:
- Download the free StepUp app at thestepupapp.com.
- Join the "TNT Step It Up!" challenge through the app.
- Optionally, join Martinez's "Jaisol's Mighty Soles" team.
- Open the app once a week to sync steps.
True North Treks, a nonprofit headquartered in Evanston, has supported teens, young adults, and caregivers affected by cancer since 2008. The organization was founded by David Victorson, a professor of medical social sciences at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine.
The group's primary programs take participants on free backpacking, canoeing, and retreat-style treks in remote wilderness areas. The step challenge extends that mission to the broader public, promoting physical activity while raising awareness for cancer-affected young adults.
More details and registration links are available at truenorthtreks.org/stepitup.
