Why We Walk: Andie’s Story
By buildOn Chicago Program Director Andrea Alanis
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Hi, Andie here. I direct buildOn programs in Chicago and I’m taking the Steps for Students challenge not just for the students I work with, but for students all over the world. I want to show solidarity with our young people who are determined to make a difference in their communities. Many of the students I work with face similar struggles to those of the community members they serve. Yet, despite these challenges, they choose to be agents of change and assets in their communities. Their resilience and passion inspire me every day. Our students pour so much into others, and they deserve the same poured in return. This challenge is my chance to show that support—to walk for them and with them.
How the Challenge is Going So Far
So far, it’s going great! I’ve logged nearly 40 miles, and one of the best parts has been doing the challenge with my son and my dog. Most days, we walk to and from daycare, which adds up to two miles a day. Often, our walks go even longer in the afternoons as we explore new paths and neighborhoods. It’s been such a rewarding experience—these walks have opened us up to new adventures and opportunities to connect with our surroundings in a whole new way.
Tips for Challenge Participants
If you’re taking part in the challenge, my tip is to find new places to explore! Slow your pace and really notice everything around you—it’s amazing what you’ll see when you pay attention. You could even challenge your colleagues to walking meetings. Personally, I’ve started bringing my mom along, and we quiz each other on the names of the trees we pass by. October is the perfect time to be outside, and the trees in particular have so much to teach us as they change and share their fall beauty.
The Greatest Challenges Our Students Face on Their Journey to and From School
One of the greatest challenges facing students, especially in Chicago, is navigating their environment. About 80% of the city seems to be under construction, and unfortunately, the areas where our students live experience a disproportionate share of the environmental burden caused by industrialization. Many of these neighborhoods are home to heavy industries like manufacturing and distribution centers, which emit pollutants that affect air quality. The southwest side is particularly impacted, with residents facing higher rates of asthma and other respiratory conditions due to air pollution. Brownfields—abandoned industrial sites with contaminated soil—pose additional environmental and health risks. These factors make simply getting to and from school a major hurdle for many of our students.
Barriers to Education and Opportunity
Beyond environmental challenges, our students face barriers like limited mental health support. There’s a stigma around mental health in many Black and brown communities, and that stigma can prevent students from getting the help they need. This is compounded by other issues like food insecurity, unstable housing, cultural disconnect, and low expectations, all of which can severely impact their access to education and opportunities. When students don’t have their basic needs met, or when they’re struggling with mental health without support, their chances for success diminish.
How buildOn Helps Break Down Barriers
The team at buildOn works hard to break down these barriers. By providing comprehensive support systems, advocating for resources, and educating students on systemic changes, we help create pathways to opportunity. Whether it’s through mental health workshops, addressing food insecurity, or fighting for equity in education, the buildOn team is committed to creating an environment where students can thrive.
Do Challenges Like This Build Community?
Absolutely. The Steps for Students challenge is more than just a fitness goal—it’s a way to bring people together around a cause. It’s like a snowball effect: you invite someone to walk with you, or they see your campaign on social media, and suddenly you’re having a conversation about the issues that matter. I’ve found that people are often eager to help or raise awareness but don’t know how. Challenges like this provide a platform to spark those conversations and get the word out. One conversation, one share on social media—it all adds up. Over time, it’s like a lighthouse that draws people in and helps grow the movement.
In the end, challenges like Steps for Students aren’t just about logging miles—they’re about building awareness, fostering community, and creating change. That’s why I walk, and I hope you’ll join me in taking steps toward a brighter future for all students.