🌿 Living Well Initiative Kickoff: Igniting a Healthier Downtown Pittsburgh
Written by Zhenru Yan
Image Courtesy of Elisa Cevallos
On Tuesday, July 15, the Downtown Neighbors Alliance officially launched the Living Well Initiative (LWI) with an inspiring kickoff event at the UFC Wellness Facility. The evening was a vibrant celebration of community, wellness, and a shared vision for a healthier Downtown Pittsburgh.
LWI is more than a program — it’s a mission to promote wellness through better nutrition, physical activity, and social connection. From nutrition talks and self-care workshops to creative arts and social events, LWI aims to make healthy living the norm in our bustling city center.
We were honored to welcome two powerhouse guest speakers:
Cheyenne Tyler, director of Café Momentum Pittsburgh, shared her moving story and work supporting justice-involved youth through job training and holistic support. Her commitment to nourishing bodies, minds, and futures is deeply aligned with LWI’s mission.
Image Courtesy of Elisa Cevallos
Katie Rotz, professional ballerina and educator at Point Park University, brought her graceful energy and passion for movement to the stage. With a career spanning companies like New York City Ballet and Pennsylvania Ballet, Katie reminded us that wellness isn’t just about performance — it’s a lifelong commitment to ourselves.
“We don’t have to wait until something goes wrong to take care of ourselves,” she said. “We can start right now — so we’re still living well into our 60s, 70s, 80s.”
Her message was both practical and powerful — a reminder that building healthy habits today is an investment in the version of ourselves we want to be decades from now. Wellness isn’t about perfection. It’s about consistency, care, and maybe a little dancing along the way.
Image Courtesy of Elisa Cevallos
Guests also enjoyed a delicious spread generously sponsored by Valozzi’s, mingled with fellow downtown neighbors, and toured the UFC Wellness Facility led by our incredible guide Jessica.
What’s Next for LWI?
This is just the beginning. Living Well Initiative is rolling out exciting community programming all year long, including:
Wellness sessions (yoga, meditation, movement)
Nutrition & self-care talks
Creative workshops & community art
Social events with music & connection
Local partner pop-ups
And introducing our newest community favorite…
đź‘ź Living Well Initiative Walking Club
A bi-weekly walking group designed to get you moving and connected — right in the heart of Downtown.
Walk 2–3 miles with three pacing options
Meet fellow neighbors, stretch your legs, and enjoy the city in a whole new way
Walks will take place every first and third Sunday at 10 AM, starting from Market Square
Start date coming soon — stay tuned!
Whether you’re a casual stroller or a power walker, there’s a pace (and a place) for you. We'll be announcing the official kickoff date shortly — so lace up those sneakers and keep an eye out!
Don’t Miss What’s Next!
🎟️ Join LWI for free to get first access to events and exclusive perks:
👉 Sign up for a membership
đź“° Prefer updates in your inbox?
👉 Sign up for our newsletter
📸 Want to see photos and check out the full program lineup?
👉 View our kickoff recap + events
Thank you for helping us kick things off. Let’s keep building a downtown that feels good to live, work, and thrive in — together. 💚
