REGISTER HERE NOW… or read on for more information then register!
Hello and welcome! On behalf of all the First Strides Mentors, I would like to invite you to join us for the 20th year (!) of First Strides Vermont! This program has been sustainable and successful over all these years because of you, the participant. We hope you will sign up to take part as a new or returning First Strider! The more the merrier – positive peer pressure at its best! Here are all the details:
What: First Strides Vermont is a unique beginner running and/or walking program for women+ based on mentoring, peer support, and lifestyle habits designed to help improve your fitness, self-esteem, and social support network.
You will be grouped with like-paced fellow participants and led by remarkably resourceful mentors who will provide entertaining distraction and much needed inspiration as you progress through the weekly walk-run workouts.
We will compliment the workouts with a different themed resource each week, in the form of handouts, mentor presentations, guest speakers, or group conversations. Attend at least 8 of the 12 classes and you’ll earn a First Strides graduation technical T-shirt.
Where: Williston Recreation Paths
When: We meet for on one 12-week session each year, Wednesdays May 3rd through July 19th 2023, 5:45pm – no later than 7:00pm (depending on length of workout+presentation)
How: Register online by May 3rd. There is a program fee of $45 fee if you pre-pay online (payment link provided after you submit the registration form) or $50 by check/cash at the first class. We do have financial assistance available. If this fee would be a financial hardship for you, or someone you know, please reach out to:
Kasie or Eileen at firststridesvermont@gmail.com to ask about a scholarship
OR
Siobhan Donegan at You First at Siobhan.donegan@vermont.gov. Read more about You First at the bottom of this post.

Please pass along the news that First Strides Vermont is open for registration with your friends, co-workers, mothers, sisters who may be interested in running & walking with us!
Happy walking and running,
Kasie Enman & Eileen McCoy, First Strides Vermont Coordinators & all your Marvelous Mentors!
YOU FIRST INFORMATION
Did you know there is a local Vermont program that can pay your First Strides Vermont membership fees if you are income-eligible and between ages 30-64? You First is a federally funded program that helps eligible Vermonters pay for important health screenings, including Mammograms, Pap tests, Heart Health screenings. You First income guidelines can be found here or interested Vermonters can call us at 800-508-2222 anytime to check eligibility by phone. Once you become a member of You First and bring your heart health screening up to date, You First can pay for First Strides and provide support for your walking and running goals. We can also pay for additional heart health benefits for members, including Vermont state park passes, farmers market coupons, fitness memberships, and much more. Please call or email today!
Siobhan Donegan
Siobhan.donegan@vermont.gov