The 2007 International Walk to School Day is coming on October 3! Thousands of U.S. communities and 40 countries will take part in this effort to raise awareness of safe walking and bicycling routes.

This worldwide event is sponsored by the Safe Routes to School National Partnership, “a network of more than 300 nonprofit organizations, government agencies, schools, and professionals working together to advance the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) movement in the United States.”

You can register your event or become a resource person by clicking on the “Register for 2007” link on the 2007 International Walk to School Day page. For registrants, a number of promotional materials, a media toolkit, and more information are available on the site as well. A step-by-step “getting started” guide will assist new event organizers. Visiting the international site gives info on what countries from around the world are participating.

The Safe Routes to School movement has grown as local communities have taken initiative on behalf of the health of their children and neighborhoods. Federal funding in the recent transportation bill (SAFETEA-LU) has provided much-needed resources to support the movement.

Promoting safe walking and bicycling to school can improve kids’ health and fitness, reduce greenhouse emissions and improve air quality, and enhance the vibrancy of neighborhoods.

For more information on International Walk to School Day and Safe Routes to School in general:

* Visit the Safe Routes to School National Partnership website.
* Visit the National Center for Safe Routes to School online information clearinghouse.
* Search “Safe Routes to School” on the ResourcesZine home page.