Eastern Oklahoma VA holds VA2K Walk & Roll event

Eastern Oklahoma VA invited employees, Veterans, caregivers and the community to take a walk on the wild side during the 2023 VA2K Walk & Roll event in May.

Participants were encouraged to show up in animal prints, safari wear, and their wildest attire to complete the 2km (1.24 miles) walk during the safari-themed events, which were held at all locations.

VA staff were all smiles as many showed up in full costume ready to enjoy the beautiful day and walk for a great cause.

The VA2K focuses on promoting active lifestyles and provides VA employees, Veterans and community members the opportunity to get outside, mingle with others, enjoy a short walk and have fun doing it.

Inspires Veterans, employees to live healthier lifestyles

The VA2K Walk & Roll event is presented by the Employee Whole Health Program and it inspires Veterans and VA staff to live healthier lifestyles to reduce preventable injuries and illnesses.

“We were so excited to see such a great turnout to this event,” said Dr. Nathan Williams, Whole Health clinical director. “Our goal was to provide a midweek break for everyone to help them finish out the week strong and motivated.”

VA2K is not just about getting exercise. The event also focuses on helping homeless Veterans. Participants are encouraged to bring donations of items such as pre-packaged food, bottled water or toiletries, all of which are donated to homeless Veterans in local areas. Donations are encouraged but are not required to participate. The annual VA2K events, held across the nation, have generated millions of dollars in donated goods to help homeless Veterans.

Importance of taking care of the mind, body and spirit

“VA’s 13th annual VA2K Walk & Roll event was such a success this year,” said Joan McWilliams, Whole Health coordinator. “Over 250 of our VA community members showed up this year to support the cause and brought plenty of team spirit with them.”

The Whole Health Team is already thinking about next year’s event with hopes of even more participation to raise awareness of the importance of taking care of the mind, body and spirit to improve overall Whole Health and well-being.

Staff who could not make it to the event were encouraged to complete a physical activity on their own and register their participation with the local Whole Health Team.

To find out more about VA’s Whole Health approach to health care and discover new ways to support your health and well-being, contact your local VA Employee Whole Health Team.