Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningHolidaysNews

Join the Heartland Conservation Alliance for Nature Walk

Community members gathered for the MLK Jr Nature Walk, engaging with nature and history.

News Summary

The Heartland Conservation Alliance is hosting its 11th Annual MLK, Jr. Nature Walk on January 20, in remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This free event features a 1.5-mile walk along Brush Creek, guided by experts, and includes tours at the Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center. Participants will learn about environmental justice and community projects while enjoying refreshments. Registration is required, and attendees are encouraged to dress warmly for the winter event.

Join the Heartland Conservation Alliance for a Fun and Meaningful Day

In the heart of the city, a special event is shaping up to honor a great leader and advocate for justice. The Heartland Conservation Alliance is thrilled to invite everyone to its 11th Annual MLK, Jr. Nature Walk on January 20, held in remembrance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This fun-filled day is not just about walking—it’s about coming together for a cause that affects us all.

Event Details You Don’t Want to Miss!

Get ready to mark your calendars! This engaging nature walk starts bright and early—from 9 am to noon—with the main event kicking off at 9:15 am at the “15 and the Mahomies” Playground. The nature walk will cover a total distance of 1.5 miles along the beautiful Brush Creek, leading participants to the Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center & Museum, located at 3700 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

The walk offers a unique opportunity to engage with nature while learning about important environmental justice themes. This is a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy a leisurely stroll while reflection on the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr..

Meet the Nature Guides—Experts in Their Fields

Joining you on this journey will be designated nature guides who bring a wealth of knowledge and passion. Firstly, there’s Nova Clark, a ranger with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at the Marais des Cygnes National Wildlife Refuge, and then there’s Erik Stafford, an author and historian known for his work organizing historical and civil rights tours in the city. Together, they will give participants insights into the natural and historical significance of the areas being explored.

Exciting Activities Await After the Walk

Once the walk concludes, you won’t want to miss the refreshments and tours at the Bruce R. Watkins Center. Attendees can enjoy snacks while taking a moment to learn more about community projects focusing on the area’s environmental and cultural significance. In fact, there will be a presentation by Schylon Kubic from Parson + Associations LLC, showcasing the final designs for two local projects—the MLK, Jr. Pedestrian Bridge and the Bruce R. Watkins Connector Community Park. It’s a wonderful opportunity to engage with transformative initiatives that celebrate both history and progress.

The event will also feature a heartfelt address from Glenn North, Director of Inclusive Learning and Creative Impact and Poet-in-Residence at the Kansas City Museum. His words are sure to inspire and motivate all those present.

Stay Warm While You Celebrate

Given that temperatures might be chilly on this winter day, it’s essential for participants to dress warmly. Hand warmers will be provided to ensure everyone stays comfortable as they enjoy the walk. For those who prefer to stay indoors, you can head straight to the Watkins Center to enjoy the latter portion of the program.

Getting There Made Easy

To make it even easier for everyone to join, there will be a shuttle service provided from the playground and registration site to the Watkins Center. So, there’s no need to worry about transportation!

How to Register

Participation is free and open to the public, but registration is required. To secure your place and gain more details about the event, simply visit www.heartlandconservationalliance.org. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to blend nature, community, and the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. on this significant day.

As we gear up for this important occasion, let’s come together, walk together, and celebrate the values that unite us.