IDAHO FALLS -- Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper is one of the record 98 Idaho mayors participating in the Mayor's Walking Challenge, a program of the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health that promotes the importance of physical activity.  

The challenge, which takes place in October, allows Mayors the opportunity to earn up to $1,000 for their efforts. Mayor Casper elected to walk an average of 10,000 steps a day during October to earn $1,000 for a program or project in our community that promotes a healthy lifestyle in Idaho Falls.  

"Idaho Falls has worked hard to develop and promote active and healthy lifestyles through numerous trails, parks, and other recreation opportunities," said Mayor Casper. "The annual walking challenge serves as a reminder to me and hopefully our residents of how physical activity not only improves our health but also builds a stronger community."  

Throughout the month of October, Mayor Casper will participate in multiple walking events throughout the community as she works to get her 10,000 steps a day. Dates for these events will be announced later as they are finalized.  

"Walking is one of the easiest and best things people can do for their health, and we appreciate the record number of Idaho mayors who are participating in the Mayor's Walking Challenge," said Kendra Witt-Doyle, Executive Director, Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health. "These mayors are doing something great for their own health while setting a good example and earning funds for their communities." 

Since the Mayor's Walking Challenge became a statewide event in 2018, Idaho mayors have earned $271,000 for their communities. Those funds have contributed to a variety of projects and programs that promote a healthy lifestyle across Idaho, including playgrounds, physical education equipment for schools, walking clubs, amenities at parks, scholarships for youth programs, and more. 

Over the years, Mayor Casper has donated funds to various schools and recreation projects throughout the city. 

"We are looking forward to sharing the wealth yet again," Casper said. 

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Media Note: For more information, please contact City of Idaho Falls Public Information Officer Eric Grossarth (208) 612-8562 or at [email protected]