A Statewide Challenge for Idaho Mayors
Mayor’s Walking Challenge
The Mayor’s Walking Challenge is a statewide program that gives Idaho mayors the opportunity to get active and earn funds for their community — all while setting a great example by being physically active. The challenge takes place in October and is open to any Idaho mayor.
How it works:
1
Mayors wear an activity tracker and commit to walk every day in October
2
Mayors earn funds for their community for averaging 5,000 ($500) or 10,000 ($1,000) steps
3
Funds are used for programs and projects that encourage physical activity and well-being
Mayors are strong partners and can be great advocates for healthy communities. They work with a variety of organizations and can catalyze positive activity within cities. The Mayor’s Walking Challenge helps raise awareness on the importance of being physically active. Registration for the 2026 challenge will open in August.
Mayors with questions about the Challenge can email info@bcidahofoundation.org.
Challenge History
The Mayor’s Walking Challenge has grown from a local program in the Treasure Valley to a statewide event for all Idaho mayors.
| Year | Participants | Amount Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 14 | $7,300 |
| 2015 | 27 | $46,500 |
| 2016 | 25 | $50,750 |
| 2017 | 34 | $59,000 |
| 2018 | 69 | $62,000 |
| 2019 | 75 | $68,000 |
| 2020 | 81 | $76,000 |
| 2021 | 83 | $65,500 |
| 2022 | 98 | $84,000 |
| 2023 | 104 | $86,500 |
| 2024 | 108 | $93,500 |
| 2025 | 121 | $107,500 |
What They’re Saying
Mayors talk about their experience in the Mayor’s Walking Challenge.
I am proud to have been able to help my local school while bettering my health and enjoying all the beautiful weather that the Pacific Northwest had to offer. To be able to get out and walk, especially with kids, is such a forgotten pastime. I enjoyed October so much; I will let my Clerk sign me up next year.
Lonnie OrrMayor, Oldtown
We’re sharing the vision of this challenge, which is to promote physical activity and the kids are responding. The fun part is it helps me, too. Walking is good for you.
Challenge ParticipantTo have the opportunity to earn money for recreational needs is an incredible offer by the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health, and I’m thankful for it.
Challenge ParticipantI literally walked every mile of the city sidewalk to determine what the challenges were. That was really a good experience. The Mayor’s Walking Challenge opened my eyes to see that we had areas where walking is challenging.
Challenge ParticipantIt’s important for mayors to get involved in the local schools and interact with the kids… the greatest reward is walking and visiting with young children to promote active lifestyles.
Challenge Participant
Statewide Participation Means Statewide Impact
