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About Us - Dallas County
County Impact Statements
2006 DASH Across Dallas County
26,566.54 Miles Walked in 8 Weeks
The Dallas County Cooperative Extension Service cosponsored the
Dallas County Health Coalition’s 2006 DASH Across Dallas County, a
program in which teams consisting of 6–10 members walked/exercised
their way to better health over an 8 week period. The Dallas County
Health Coalition (DCHC) adapted the program from the Cooperative
Extension Service’s Walk Across Arkansas program according to Bobby
Hall, county agent, who co-chaired the program.
Individuals reported their weekly mileage to their team captain,
who in turn reported the total team mileage. Teams were divided into
three separate divisions based on their physical activity. The
program encouraged team and individual competitiveness. Awards were
presented to the division-winning teams/individuals and also to the
overall winner, who logged 501 miles. Also, a plaque (identified by
the big size 14 shoe of pro footballer Kevin Williams of Fordyce)
with division winners is displayed at the county health office. 36
teams consisting of a total of 329 members in the DASH Across Dallas
County Program logged 26,566.54 miles over the eight-week period.
This was the second year for the program, which saw changes and
improvements from last year, including a pedometer given to every
team member at the kickoff activity and a t-shirt and certificate
for all team members who completed the 8- week program. The DCHC
obtained a diabetes grant, which helped in funding the program. It
was a fun and healthful time for all. Some of the team names
included Synergized, Pavement Pounders, Get “R” Done, Walkie
Talkies, The Tired Teachers, Gut Busters, Sole Mates, and Staff
Infection.
Impacts
- 329 team members walked or exercised for 8 weeks.
- Most members reported an improvement in their overall health
and some weight loss.
- The program promoted physical activity and teamwork.
- Several diabetic members reported a change in their
lifestyle and pledged to continue walking after program ended.
- Wrap-up evaluations included very positive comments and
suggestions and most wanted the program to be held again in the
fall.
Team members lined up and waiting for their
pedometers to be calibrated during kickoff event.
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