Why We Started Hosting Monthly Community Walk & Talks (and Why You’re Invited)

Garion Sparks-Austin Founder & Director of Co & Associates Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist

If you’ve ever felt a little weird saying it out loud—“I’m lonely”—you’re not alone.

One of the most striking realities of modern life is this: we are more connected than ever through technology, and yet many of us feel increasingly isolated, disconnected, and unseen. We can keep up with hundreds (or thousands) of people online… while struggling to find a moment of genuine, human connection in real life.

The idea for our Community Walk & Talks started exactly there.

It was sparked by a brief online interaction with someone I know—someone who responded to a Co & Associates post about how society has become more disconnected despite being virtually connected 24/7. It was one of those simple moments that lands deeply, because it names what so many people already feel: we’re surrounded by noise, but hungry for belonging.

And we kept thinking: What would it look like to create something small, real, and consistent that helps people feel less alone?

That’s how the Walk & Talks began.

A Small Antidote to a Big Problem: Disconnection

At Co & Associates, our mission has always been about normalizing mental health support—making it more accessible, less intimidating, and more human.

But mental health isn’t only something we “work on” in a therapy office. A big part of healing, resilience, and wellbeing is also shaped by things like:

• feeling part of a community

• experiencing safe connection

• having consistent, low-pressure social opportunities

• moving our bodies

• spending time outdoors

  
  

We’ve seen other organizations and communities host similar gatherings—events designed to break down barriers, reduce stigma, and create spaces where people can feel seen, heard, valued, and connected.

We loved that spirit. And we wanted to bring more of it to Milton.

Why Walking?

Walking side-by-side does something subtle and powerful.

It softens pressure.

For a lot of people, sitting face-to-face and “making conversation” can feel intense—especially if you’re anxious, shy, new to town, or simply tired. Walking gives your nervous system options. You can talk… or not talk. You can connect… without feeling put on the spot.

And nature helps too. There’s something regulating about being outdoors—the light, the air, the trees, the openness. It’s not a cure-all, but it can be a gentle support for our bodies and brains.

movement + community + simplicity matter.

What a Community Walk & Talk Actually Is (and Isn’t)

Let’s be super clear, because this is the part that matters most:

There is zero expectation here.

No pressure to perform. No pressure to be social. No pressure to stay the whole time. No pressure to “participate correctly.”

This is what you’re welcome to do:

• show up and walk

• show up and not walk

• talk a little

• not talk at all

• come for 10 minutes

• stay the whole time

• come alone

• bring a friend

  
  

We’re not trying to create a polished event. We’re creating presence and belonging—a consistent, welcoming place to land with other humans, in nature, in your own way.

Sometimes that’s all people need to feel a little more anchored: “Okay. I’m not the only one.”

We’ve Already Hosted Two… and We’re Just Getting Started

So far, we’ve hosted two walks, and each one has reinforced why we started:

Because people want community. Because it’s hard to find low-stakes ways to meet others.

Because showing up—especially when life feels heavy—is brave. Because belonging heals.

And because something shifts when we gather with no agenda other than: let’s be here together.

Join Us: Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 10:30 AM

Our next Community Walk & Talk is scheduled for:

Saturday, December 13, 202510:30 AM. Meet near the pergola at Mill Pond (Martin St side), Milton

Come as you are (keeping in mind the weather).

Our Hope Moving Forward

Our hope is to continue hosting these monthly and to keep growing a culture in our community where:

• therapy is normalized

• connection is prioritized

• isolation is gently challenged

• people feel welcome without needing to “prove” anything

• community support isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we create

If you’ve been feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, stuck in your head, or simply craving more real-life human moments, consider this your invitation.

No pressure. Just presence.

We’ll see you at the pond.

-Garion Sparks-Austin