MILWAUKEE — Once a week, a group of women in the Milwaukee area get together and walk. It’s a safe and judgment-free zone to exercise and meet new people. 

Sam Schulte created the group, Girls Who Walk Milwaukee, in May 2023 after hearing about similar groups in other cities.  

“In my 20s myself, I know that’s a very common thing for people to feel that it’s hard to meet friends,” said Schulte. “A lot of people were expressing they’re not comfortable walking outside by themselves, and as a woman I can relate to that.”

It’s a community Schulte said she is proud of building. 

And it’s not just limited to women. Anyone who wants a safe space to exercise can join. 

“There’s power in numbers, and there’s safety in numbers for people who have social anxiety,” said Schulte.“There’s power in numbers, and there’s safety in numbers for people who have social anxiety,” said Schulte. “It’s a lot easier for them to walk with other people rather than walking by themselves. For physical reasons, of course, especially in these winter months.”

Jaymee Dhein found the group on Instagram and said she really enjoys it. She often brings her pup and other friends along. 

“It’s really cool to see a lot of new faces and a lot of repeating faces as well and connect online,” said Dhein. “Being able to meet up with all of these women and walk, and know that it’s always positive and safe, is really cool in today’s climate.” 

The group has exceeded Schulte’s expectations. What started out as a walk with a few others now often attracts more than 50 people, regardless of weather.

Whether it’s a sunny summer afternoon on the Milwaukee Lakefront or a snowy winter morning at Humboldt Park, they show up.

“I totally thought this would be a little endeavor with some friends and maybe meeting a few new people every week,” said Schulte. “It’s just ballooned into something I couldn’t have imagined.” 

To learn more about Girls Who Walk Milwaukee, click here.