Community Formed Through Movement
In Portland, Oregon, a unique and energetic group called Food Court 5000 is redefining the concept of mall walking. Instead of the traditional quiet stroll associated with senior citizens, this group of participants, spanning various ages, embraces a vibrant atmosphere filled with ’80s music, colorful costumes, and a spirit of performance art.
The Birth of Food Court 5000
The initiative was spearheaded by Krista Catwood, who sought a fun way to integrate movement into her lifestyle after transitioning to a sedentary office job. Drawing on her background as a former burlesque performer, she envisioned a community event that would involve costumes, music, and social engagement. “Costumes work for me; ridiculous works for me,” Catwood noted, emphasizing the need for a social accountability component.
After organizing a few encouraging walks at the Lloyd Center—an expansive shopping mall that has experienced significant store closures over the years—Catwood’s idea took off. The half-empty mall, which provided ample space for walking, became the perfect venue for the group. Within a year, Food Court 5000 celebrated its first anniversary with approximately 200 participants.
An Inclusive and Joyful Community
Each Sunday morning, walkers gather at the Lloyd Center, where Catwood lays out ground rules that encourage exuberance. Participants are asked to pump their arms in exaggerated motions and engage with fellow walkers. “Wave to everybody you pass,” she advises, creating an environment focused on community and encouragement.
The group is diverse, attracting members aged 8 to 80, including individuals with mobility aids and different intellectual abilities. This inclusivity is a significant draw for participants like Libby Rice, who expresses her joy at meeting new people, saying it’s a “joyous space for everyone.”
One participant, Leslie Kelinson, 81, often leads the pack, finding the event therapeutic and enjoyable. “This is medicinal; it’s everything,” she remarked, highlighting the liberating experience the walks provide.
Revitalizing a Declining Space
The Lloyd Center, which opened in 1960, is a sprawling site home to various attractions. Despite its charm, the mall has faced challenges in light of a nationwide decline in brick-and-mortar retail. Many stores have closed, leaving open spaces for the Food Court 5000 walkers to navigate. This has created an unusual yet fitting atmosphere for a community event centered on movement and socialization.
Participants bond over shared experiences and enjoy a workout of approximately 3.5 miles through two loops of the mall’s three levels. As music from Erasure and Robert Palmer plays, the atmosphere transforms into a fun-filled journey, where walkers strike poses and engage with the mall’s environment, reminiscent of a colorful parade.
Looking Ahead
Despite its vibrant atmosphere, the Lloyd Center is expected to close its doors soon, with plans announced for August. The anticipated closure has prompted Catwood and other members to begin searching for potential new locations that can accommodate their community-focused walks. “We’re scouting out alternative spaces that maintain accessibility,” Catwood confirmed, emphasizing the resilience and determination of the group.
Whether at the Lloyd Center or a new venue, the Food Court 5000 walkers are committed to preserving their joyful community. Catwood encapsulated the group’s ethos by stating, “We are centering joy. We could all use more of that.”
As the search continues, the community remains undeterred, embodying innovation, camaraderie, and the pursuit of health in a fun, engaging manner. The Food Court 5000 has not only created an enjoyable outlet for exercise but also fostered lasting friendships and a sense of belonging among its members.
Source: Original Reporting
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