American Volkssport Association Inc.

The American Volkssport Association Inc. (AVA), also known as America's Walking Club, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting noncompetitive physical fitness activities for people of all ages and abilities across the United States. The AVA was established to foster fun, fitness, and friendship through a variety of outdoor sports such as walking, hiking, biking, swimming, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

History

Volkssporting, which translates to "sport of the people," originated in Germany in 1968 under the umbrella of the Internationaler Volkssportverband e.V. (IVV), or International Federation of Popular Sports. This concept was introduced to the United States in 1976 by Rev. Mr. Kenn Knopp in Fredericksburg, Texas. The first volksmarch in the U.S. took place on June 12-13, 1976, as part of the American Bicentennial celebrations.

In 1979, the organization held its first national convention in Dayton, Ohio, where it was renamed from the International Peoples’ Sports-United States of America to the American Volkssport Association (AVA). This change helped to better reflect the organization's national scope and avoid confusion with the parent organization, IVV. On July 7, 1979, the AVA officially became the 12th member country of the IVV.

Activities and Mission

The AVA hosts over 3,000 noncompetitive sports events annually across the U.S., with activities like walking being the most popular. These events are open to everyone, regardless of age or ability, and often feature trails that are 5 or 10 kilometers long. Part of the organization's mission is to provide a stress-free environment for personal physical fitness and health.

The AVA also offers an Achievement Awards Program, which allows participants to track their progress through record books and receive rewards for the distances completed. This program encourages participants to continue engaging in physical activities and provides a sense of accomplishment.

Organizational Structure

The AVA is managed by an all-volunteer board of directors alongside ten regional directors elected by the clubs in their respective regions. The organization is based in Texas and has more than 250 chartered clubs across the country.

Impact

The AVA's efforts have attracted nearly 400,000 participants over a two-year period, with many individuals starting for fitness reasons but continuing due to the social benefits and friendships formed through the organization. Events often include multiple generations of families, making volkssporting a family-friendly activity.

The AVA's vision is to increasingly engage Americans in lifelong walking and noncompetitive physical fitness activities, promoting health and wellness while fostering an inclusive environment for all participants.