Don’t Walk Alone events offer veterans and their families regular opportunities to meet, connect and bond with other members of the community using outdoor walks. Participants are encouraged to wear clothing or items which reflect their service. Free and with no registration required, veterans, their families and friends gather at a designated site and at the appointed time begin walking. They walk at their own pace, in groups or pairs, often talking along the way or just appreciating being with peers.
Piloted in Austin, it is hoped the program will catch on with other communities and recently a Don’t Walk Alone event was held in Harker Heights.
“It has been introduced to the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service Members, Veterans and their Families (SMVF),” said John Wilson, TVC Community & Faith Base Program Manager, Lt. Col. USAF retired, pictured.
Held the second Saturday of every month at 11:00 a.m., the next Don’t Walk Alone events will be held March 11, 2023. It is hosted at two locations in Austin. One is at Mueller Lake Park, gathering by the Nessy Statue, 4550 Mueller Boulevard, Austin, TX 78723. The other is located at Camp Mabry, Track/Parade Field start line, 2200 W 35th Street, Austin, TX 78748. Stay in touch with Don’t Walk Alone.
The Don’t Walk Alone event was created as part of the City of Austin’s continued participation with the U.S. Veterans Administration and the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Austin is among seven cities across the nation to launch the Mayors’ Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans, and their Families (SMVF). Don’t Walk Alone is built to give the community the opportunity to come together and foster a sense of community with veterans.