“How can I make it better?” Maclin Williams asked this in 2023 when he first settled in McDonough after moving from Ohio by way of Stockbridge. He learned about efforts to develop a community health improvement plan. Mr. Williams had started distance running as a recovery tool after heart surgery and knew that others could benefit from similar exercise.

 Williams investigated how to partner with local organizations to address health disparities related to high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity, promote mental and emotional well-being, and raise awareness about cancer prevention. Because all of those medical issues are helped by regular exercise, the McDonough Walking Club was born to get people moving and thinking about their health.

The inaugural “Weekend Wellness” event was held in November 2023 as part of the city’s bicentennial celebration at Jonesboro Road Park. It was well attended and featured a variety of speakers, vendors and medical personnel. The McDonough Walking Club has steadily grown its number of walkers and partnering organizations. Members meet on the first Saturday of every month at 8:30 a.m. at Jonesboro Road Park. Walkers enjoy nature and camaraderie along the .3 mile trail and learn about local businesses and organizations doing great things in the community.  The walk is open to all fitness levels and lasts 30-40 minutes, so walking enthusiasts can enjoy getting exercise and meeting new people in a relaxed environment.

Since its inception two years ago, the McDonough Walking Club has been hosted and supported by dozens of local businesses and organizations. The Henry County NAACP Health Committee hosted a Mini Health Fair on September 6, 2025, and the Alpha Delta Beta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Sorority, Inc. hosted a Breast Cancer Awareness Walk on October 4, 2025, setting a record for the highest number of walkers since the club began. The McDonough Walking Club has partnered with the organization Above the Net, which will host a walk combined with beginner tennis classes at Richard Craig Park.

The vision of the McDonough Walking Club is to expand the concept of community walking.  Williams is seeking motivated volunteers who want to work with people to help them thrive in all stages of life. He can be reached at (318) 572-8220 or maclin.d.williams@gmail.com.

By Arolue Flemmen Prater