EASTERN IDAHO (KIFI) – This month, mayors across the Gem State are participating in the 13th annual Mayor’s Walking Challenge, organized in partnership with the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health. The challenge aims to promote healthier lifestyles and secure grant funding for their communities.
Organized by the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health, the October challenge encourages mayors to track their daily steps while working toward goals that could bring additional funding to their cities.
Forty mayors in Eastern and Southeastern Idaho are participating in the 2026 challenge, including leaders from Idaho Falls, Pocatello, Ammon, Driggs, Victor, Tetonia, Grace, and McCammon.
Extra steps toward healthier communities
The challenge gives participating mayors an opportunity to improve their own physical activity while helping fund projects that encourage residents to stay active.
Mayors who average 5,000 steps per day throughout October can earn a $500 grant for their city. Those who average 10,000 steps per day can qualify for $1,000.
Participants track their activity using a smartphone app or fitness tracker.
The grant money can support a variety of community projects, including playground improvements, physical education equipment for schools, and additional amenities at local parks.
The challenge also encourages mayors to find creative ways to increase their activity throughout the month.
Participants can earn bonus steps by walking with students at local schools, joining fellow mayors for walks, or participating in Halloween-themed activities.
The effort is designed to make physical activity a community-wide priority, with local leaders setting an example for residents.
Making every step count
With the challenge taking place throughout October, participating mayors are working toward their step goals as the month nears its close.
Beyond the individual health benefits, the challenge offers cities an opportunity to invest in projects that make it easier for residents to get outside, exercise, and enjoy their communities.
For participating mayors, the goal is twofold: stay active and turn those daily steps into something that benefits the people they serve.
