31 07 2025 at 15:00
The Great Walk: Stepping Into Purpose, One Day at a Time
On 29 July, The Great Walk began — a journey of over 1 million steps to raise awareness and support for the more than 1 million people experiencing homelessness across Europe. The initiative is bold, simple, and deeply human: walk, speak, share, and invite others to step in — through donations, solidarity, or action.
Here’s a glimpse into the first two days of this inspiring initiative:
Day 1: A Strong Start, A Hard Hit
The walk kicked off in Linz, Austria, heading toward Saxen. The team covered an astonishing 50 kilometers in one day — but not without challenges.
Early on, one of the support team members had a serious bicycle accident and was taken to hospital with two broken shoulders. It was a moment that reminded everyone that even with the best project preparation, life is unpredictable.
Despite the delay and the emotional shock, Andrew and Toby pushed on and completed the first leg. Exhausted but determined, they closed the day with a message of thanks and a call for continued support:
“There’s a reason it’s called The Great Walk.”
Day 2: Walking for Those Who Can’t
The second day began in the early morning hours — just after 6 a.m. — as the team continued toward Pöchlarn, with another 48 kilometers ahead.
The walk is physical, but the message is powerful:
“Each step represents hope for someone in the homeless community in Europe.”
Fatigue set in. Muscles stiffened. Gaits turned funny. But our fellow walkers kept moving, drawing strength from the cause. As Toby said, “When I stop, my muscles rest — and then I struggle to walk again.”
And yet, they kept going.
They also shared a reflection that hits home: while they’ve been lucky to eat well and rest each evening, millions across Europe are walking daily just to survive — without proper meals or mobility support. Day 2 was dedicated to them.
One Million Steps, One Purpose
The Great Walk is not about distance — it’s about direction.
It’s about turning every step into a signal: that homelessness in Europe matters, and that we all have a role to play in tackling it.
You can follow the journey, spread the word, and if you’re able — donate. Every bit of support helps fuel this walk and the cause it represents.
Stay tuned as we continue to follow the journey of The Great Walk. Step by step, story by story, this is how change begins.
👉 Follow the Journey
Want to see The Great Walk in action?
Catch behind-the-scenes moments, daily updates, and stories from the road on their social channels:
Every view, like, comment, or share helps raise awareness and keeps the team going strong.
Let’s walk this path together — step by step.
Edi Venturin
Director of Marketing & Communication, PMI Belgium
