CHICAGO — A nationwide fitness movement is stepping up once again this summer — and it’s doing more than promoting exercise. True North Treks’ “Step It Up!” summer challenge returns July 1 through August 31, inviting people from all walks of life to get moving in support of young adult cancer survivors.
The free challenge is open to anyone across the U.S. and combines health, community, and fundraising into one powerful cause.
Challenge Kicks Off July 1
The 2025 edition of “Step It Up!” encourages participants to track their physical activity and earn prize entries by:
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Logging steps through a free mobile app
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Referring others to join the challenge
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Donating to the cause
There’s no cost to participate, and according to event organizers, no donation is required to win — just a willingness to get active.
“Every step, every share, and every donation helps uplift the lives of young adults affected by cancer,” said David Victorson, Founder and Director of True North Treks.
Participants can earn a prize entry for every 150,000 steps logged during the two-month challenge period.
Support That Makes an Impact
Proceeds from the challenge go directly toward supporting True North Treks programs, which offer nature-based retreats and wellness services for young adults diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers.
Sponsors also play a critical role in expanding the challenge’s reach and impact. Event leaders say these partnerships allow more survivors to access support while spreading awareness about survivorship needs in the 18–39 age group — a community often underserved in the cancer care space.
How to Join
Registration for “Step It Up!” is now open and runs through August 31, 2025.
Participants can sign up at www.truenorthtreks.org/stepitup, where they’ll find instructions to download the official tracking app and view full challenge rules.
Why It Matters for Illinois
With hundreds of young adult cancer survivors in Chicago and across Illinois, local residents have the chance to step up in solidarity. Whether you’re walking Lakefront Trail or logging steps in your neighborhood, every mile walked helps pave a better future for those facing cancer at a young age.
Are you planning to take part in the “Step It Up!” challenge this summer? Tell us where you’ll be stepping and why it matters to you — drop your story in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
