By DaChar Lane

In Harris County’s sprawling landscape of neighborhoods, every community has a story about how it came to be and what it is becoming. Spring Branch has deeper roots than most. This corner of Precinct 4 began as a German farming settlement in 1830, long before Houston became the metropolis it is today.

Over nearly two centuries, Spring Branch has evolved into a vibrant, diverse neighborhood where Korean families and Hispanic neighbors build lives side by side, drawn by its proximity to Memorial City Mall, The Galleria, Downtown, and the Texas Medical Center.

Now, this historic community is writing its next chapter — one step at a time. Every Wednesday morning at Harris County Precinct 4’s Pitner Pocket Park, neighbors pull on bright orange shirts and lace up their walking shoes for a movement that's reshaping their entire neighborhood.

Walking as a catalyst for change

Each step is a statement. Residents aren't just exercising; they are reclaiming their neighborhood. This movement is driven by Fit Houston, an organization using walking as a tool to break down systemic barriers to health and build community from the ground up.

“Our mission is to inspire vibrant minds, bodies, and communities with physical activity,” said Lharissa Jacobs, Founder and Executive Director of Fit Houston. “You don’t need a car. You don’t need a membership. You can just come and be active.”

For Spring Branch, this mission is already creating positive change. At Pitner Park, a group known as the “comadres network” gathers weekly to share resources, support one another, and invite others to join — whether they are parents dropping off their children, neighbors on their way to work, or strangers curious about the group in orange shirts. Walking here isn’t just about fitness; it’s about connection, empowerment, and belonging.

“I’ve been walking with these ladies and Fit Houston for almost two years,” said a comadres member. “It’s great because you relieve stress, meet more people, and discover new places. Before, I only knew my way between work and home. Now, I know my community.”

From steps to community health

Fit Houston’s work extends beyond walking. The organization is partnering with the City of Houston to install free outdoor gyms, known as FitLots, in local neighborhoods, creating permanent hubs for fitness and programming. They’re also supporting schools by hosting free bike rodeos — obstacle courses designed to teach children safe cycling skills and encourage physical activity.

“We realized that physical activity can be a sort of medicine for everyone — no matter their age, circumstance, or walk of life,” said Jacobs.

To Ana Josa, Health Program Coordinator of Fit Houston, and Laura Abrams, Director of Donor and Community Engagement of Spring Branch Family Development Center, the best part is seeing the Spring Branch community find their voice.

The walkers in Pitner Park wanted to see improvements for themselves and their neighbors, so Abrams and Josa encouraged them to speak up.

“Not only did they advocate for themselves, but they saw results,” said Abrams. “Precinct 4 came out immediately to hear their ideas and address their concerns, and for that we are so grateful.”

“We’re even getting a new mural soon,” added Josa. “I think seeing the positive results from Precinct 4 is showing this community that they can be the change they want to see.”

Taking back the park

For some, walking alone can feel intimidating. But through initiatives like Fit Houston’s #WALK30, neighbors are encouraged to walk at least 30 minutes each day — together. In Spring Branch, this campaign was translated for the local community as #CAMINA30, ensuring that language would never become a barrier to participation.

“There is a need for community, social interaction, and the ability to feel safe at the park,” said Jacobs. “With a walking group, you can take back the park.”

Walking can be an effective way to improve your health. It can strengthen your heart and lungs, lower the risk of chronic disease, improve bone and muscle health, and support mental health. Fit Houston participants describe feeling lighter, more energized, and more rooted in their neighborhood after just one 30-minute walk.

Spring Branch moves forward

Today, the orange shirts of Fit Houston walkers are a familiar sight in Spring Branch and across the entire Harris County community. Their presence sends a clear message: this is a community taking steps — literally and figuratively — toward a healthier, more connected future.

To join or start a walking group near you, visit fithouston.org.