Cleveland Clinic, Great Lakes Mall Partner For Walking Program

Great Lakes Mall and the Cleveland Clinic have teamed for a new mall walking program.

The program's goal is to add to a group of about 300 walkers already exercising at the mall weekly.

A launch party will be held 8:30 a.m. Friday for those wishing to register for the program.

Those who register at the Great Lakes Mall guest service booth in the concourse will receive a free drawstring backpack, as well as a complimentary breakfast and coffee.

The mall will add new mile-marker signs throughout the concourses to help walkers track their distance and healthy walking tips to reinforce fitness goals.

"So many walkers rely on the mall to provide them a safe and temperature-controlled place to exercise," said Renee Lanzara, the director of marketing and business development for Great Lakes Mall. "Our partnership with Cleveland Clinic health system will help us provide an even better experience for them."

Meanwhile, health professionals from Cleveland Clinic’s Euclid Hospital, Hillcrest Hospital and Willoughby Hills Family Health Center will contribute health news and information to mall walking program's monthly newsletter.

"We’re excited about partnering with the Great Lakes Mall and sponsoring this program," said Marybeth Mack -- a registered nurse who is the community outreach coordinator at Hillcrest Hospital -- in a statement. "We are proud to extend our wellness activites to the residents of Lake County and look forward  to registering future mall walkers at the launch party of the program."

In addition to walking, Cleveland Clinic will host monthly events for walkers focused on health and education. Some events will include free health screening opportunities.