Be the One Walk
About the Event
It is estimated that up to 22 veterans or service members take their lives each day. This walk is part of the American Legion's Mission and an initiative involving multiple communities that will help build awareness about the crisis, destigmatize asking for mental health support, and will introduce participants to resources available to veterans who are possibly struggling.
The walk, which is hosted by the DeKalb American Legion Post 66, will begin at 10:00 am with a welcome and overview, and activities are expected to end by 12:00 noon.Registration/Check In will begin at 9:00 am. If you do not register online prior to the day of the walk, you can register on site on that day....bring your last-minute friends with you!
The walk is 2.2 miles on sidewalks and asphalt pathways. There is a 1-mile circuit available as well for those who cannot or do not wish to walk 2.2 miles.
If you do not wish to walk or are unable to walk, please still register to enjoy a beautiful day with friends and participate in other activities. Activities available on the patio and in the classrooms during that time frame will include Tai Chi, Chair Yoga, Labyrinth Meditation, and multiple exhibits for you to visit with information focusing on veteran mental health support and services.
Refreshments will be available prior to the walk...apples from the orchard, oranges, and granola bars, as well as the much needed morning coffee. Pizza and cookies donated by community businesses will also be available following the walk.
22 rocks will be carried in the walk, representing the loss of 22 lives/day to suicide, with a short ceremony at the end of the walk to remember those who lost their lives.
If you would like to dedicate a rock in memory of a veteran or soldier who has lost their life due to the struggle of PTSD, depression, sexual trauma, etc., please go to the "Dedicate a Rock" tab on this website and the rock will be carved with the name of that veteran and carried on the walk. There is no fee for this service.
The Be the One Walk brings an exciting 3.5K to Dekalb, Illinois on September 20, 2026. Don't miss this beautiful event!
Races Offered
Walking
DeKalb American Legion Post 66, Be the One Walk
The 2.2 mile walk is family-friendly and for all ages and abilities. The course is level and easy to walk at a leisurely pace on a sidewalk along a roadway and a wide asphalt pathway through a parklike setting. If anyone wishes to walk 1-mile, they can walk with the group for the initial part of the walk, then guides will be available to direct them on the one-mile circuit. A water stop and turnaround will be available at approximately halfway on the walk at the PA Nehring Forest Preserve parking lot.
About Dekalb
Be the One Walk takes place in Dekalb, Illinois, United States. The local timezone is America/Chicago.
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Race information has been sourced from the event's official website and other publicly available resources. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official website directly. If you notice any incorrect or missing information, don't hesitate to reach out to us by email.
