VA2K Walk & Roll for homeless Veterans

The Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System invited employees, Veterans, caregivers and the community to break out their capes and assemble for the 2024 VA2K Walk & Roll event held May 15.

Participants were encouraged to show up in their best superhero attire to complete the 2km (approximately 1.24 miles) walk during the hero-themed events, which were held at all locations throughout the health care system.

VA staff were all smiles as many showed up in costume ready to enjoy the walk for a great cause. Even a surprise rain shower at the beginning didn’t stop things. Participants showed that superheroes never give up and, in VA fashion, moved events inside until the rain passed.

Pictured above, Whole Health Staff Joan McWilliams, Tiffani Mathews and Dr. Nathan Williams (from left) encouraged VA staff and Veterans to pursue active lifestyles.

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.

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

“We are always excited for this event,” said Dr. Nathan Williams, Whole Health Clinical director. “Our goal is to provide a fun midweek break for everyone to help them finish out the week strong and motivated.”

Focused on helping homeless Veterans

VA2K is not just about getting exercise. The event also focuses on helping homeless Veterans; each year participants are encouraged to bring donations, like as pre-packaged food, bottled water or toiletries, to be donated to homeless Veterans in local areas. 

The annual VA2K events, held across the nation, have generated millions of dollars in donated goods, all to help homeless Veterans.

“VA’s 14th annual VA2K Walk & Roll event was so much fun this year,” said Joan McWilliams, Whole Health coordinator. “Even with the rain, we had a great turnout this year and they brought their 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.