Brandon Williams is claiming his journey — on foot and online.
The business administration alumnus is the founder of Claim Your Journey, a community that encourages Louisianians of all skill levels to improve their health through running.
The organization, which launched in January 2011, functions primarily through its website and through social media, such as #RunLA on Twitter.
“There’s a problem of obesity in Louisiana, and we’re trying to address that and motivate people to participate in a healthier, active lifestyle,” he said.
The group discusses the realities of running, upcoming events, new running products and all aspects of an active lifestyle. It also sponsors local running clubs and events in the Greater Baton Rouge area, such as Sunday Runday.
Claim Your Journey has steadily increased its local following and now includes about 5,000 members and a staff of nearly 30 people.
Williams, who speaks of his online community as his own family, said increasing local involvement is his greatest success. He said the membership gives the movement “legs.”
“No pun intended,” he laughed.
Carley Wahlborg, Run Louisiana intern and public relations junior, said Claim Your Journey is a “progressive way” to promote fitness and self-discipline close to home.
Wahlborg said she wanted to be a part of the Run Louisiana family after discovering the company’s Facebook page. She is now “incorporating running into [her] own life and finding ways to spread that to
others.”
Wahlborg said she is particularly interested in reaching out to the collegiate community.
But Run Louisiana is more than a running movement, she said. It’s “a big family tree.”
“The state comes together through Claim Your Journey,” she said. “When they say the Run[LA] family, that’s truly what it is.”
Williams agreed, saying the events organized through Claim Your Journey provide a more relaxed atmosphere for everyone. It’s a way to enjoy the activity and stay healthy, he said.
“We want to stress the importance of activity in everyday life, but we like to have a little fun with it,” Williams said.
