By Luciana Starks

The beauty of City of Hope’s grounds are renowned in the community, and 400 faculty and staff members took a closer look during the first Steps in the City walk event on March 27.

The Steps in the City walking program encourages employee wellness. (Photo by Thomas Brown)

Research has shown that regular exercise can help employees reduce stress and become more productive at work. Steps in the City is a new program that encourages City of Hope employees to get active and walk their way to better health. The program challenges employees to  complete a series of three walks along a one-mile route located on City of Hope’s Duarte campus.

“City of Hope is committed to fostering employees’ good health and well-being through education, activities and programs that enable our campus to role model wellness to our patients and the community we serve,” said Stephanie Neuvirth, chief human resources and diversity officer. “Steps in the City is one of several initiatives supporting that commitment.”

Employees who complete the mile receive super saver vouchers redeemable for a healthy lunch at the Crossroads Café. The next two walks in the series are scheduled for April 17 and May 10; the walk begins near the Visitor Center and runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.