When Lydia Light moved to Stanly County in 2019, she felt the need to get acquainted with others.

“I felt a little out of place,” she said, “so I started looking for opportunities to get out and meet my neighbors.”

One of the opportunities Light found was a local precinct meeting sponsored by the Democratic Women of Stanly County, where she made a number of new friends.

“It was great,” she said. “It was a chance to socialize and learn about the county and the area in general, and to discuss issues that were important to us.”

Light looks to take this approach to a different level with her plans to hold a “Walk Around Stanly County” the first Sunday of each month over 10 months to visit each municipality and connect with each other.

“Everyone is welcome; it’s a chance to get out and enjoy an easy walk while learning about our towns in the county,” she said. “We can socialize with no pressure and no agenda while doing something good for ourselves.”

Ann Lipe views the walks as an opportunity to learn about the county while sharing viewpoints.

“Sometimes we stay in our own groups and don’t get to know people with varied perspectives,” she said. “This is a chance for everyone to share and hopefully find common ground in a relaxed setting.”

“We don’t have a rigid plan for each town yet,” added Light. “At some, we may walk the downtowns or places of historic significance, in others, we may walk in the parks. The ability level of those who take part will help us determine how long and where we walk.

“What we want to accomplish is to increase the sense of community among all people in Stanly County,” she said.

The next walk will take place at 3 p.m. Nov. 5 in Badin. The meeting place will be announced by Light.