The Leaf It to Me Walking Challenge was a seasonal wellness initiative led by CPHI’s Community of Practice for Community Health Workers, designed to promote physical activity, stress reduction, and peer connection among CHWs and community partners. Running from November 1, 2025 through January 3, 2026, the challenge was intentionally scheduled during the holiday season — a period often marked by increased stress and reduced physical activity — to help participants maintain consistency in healthy behaviors when it matters most. 

Ten participants collectively logged an impressive 1,957,778 steps, covering nearly 979 miles over the course of the challenge. Top honors went to Antoinette Williams, CCHW (651,151 steps), followed by Norma Young, CCHW (219,348 steps), and Kaniah Gunter, CHW (161,228 steps). 

Post-challenge survey results reflected an overwhelmingly positive experience. Of the five participants who completed the survey, 80% rated their overall experience as Excellent and 20% as Good. Every respondent reported increased daily movement; 80% felt encouraged to build healthier long-term habits, and 60% experienced reduced stress and improved mood. Notably, 100% of survey respondents said they would participate in another wellness or movement-based challenge through the Community of Practice. 

The Leaf It to Me Walking Challenge exemplifies CPHI’s commitment to advancing health promotion, prevention, and equity through accessible, community-centered programming. By combining low-barrier design with peer accountability and structured incentives, the initiative demonstrated that scalable wellness interventions can produce meaningful, measurable impact — even during the busiest time of year.