U.S. Programs Director Travis Welcome hands out food at a buildOn service event in the Bronx

Why We Walk: Travis’ Story

As a kid growing up in Brooklyn, Travis Welcome remembers tagging along with his mom when she went on her daily walks. And whenever they moved, she was always sure to find a track or a park nearby. But it wasn’t until he became an adult that he realized for his mom, walking was more than just moving–it was a way to connect with nature, and an opportunity to reflect and think about life.

Travis’ mom had a unique journey, having migrated from Guyana to the United States in the early 80s as a young woman. It was a very different place from what she was used to and she didn’t have much guidance on how to navigate the nuances and complexities of a different country and a big city like New York. He finds comfort in knowing she had this outlet in walking, and as an adult, he’s found the same. That’s why during the month of October, Travis is taking the Steps for Students challenge in honor of his mom, on the 3rd anniversary of her passing. 

Travis Welcome with his Mother
Travis with his mom, Jennifer.

As buildOn’s Chief U.S. Program Officer, Travis is passionate about giving our students meaningful opportunities to learn, grow, and give back through service. He also understands that many of them face difficulties at home and in their communities–like caring for younger siblings, or even navigating violence in their neighborhoods–which can make something as seemingly simple as walking to school a challenge. 

He also notes the significance of our students’ lack of proximity to opportunity. “The areas our students are living in aren’t exactly down the street from Salesforce Tower or tech companies or law firms,” Travis says. “They also face financial stresses, and if they even have access to opportunity, that requires time commitment. And if your parents have to work extra hours, sometimes they have to decide between babysitting their siblings or getting a job and contributing to the household at a young age.”

Travis Welcome serving with buildOn students
Travis at service with Bronx students.

But one of the hardest things our students face, Travis acknowledges, is just getting up and going at it another day. “Yes, there are challenges in their communities, but those aren’t changing tomorrow, or next week, or even in the next 6-12 months. What matters is that they have the courage and will to get up and push through every single day, walk to school and to class, and have hope that someday things will get better.”

Eleven days into the Steps for Students challenge, Travis is right on track with 10 miles under his belt! Inspired by his mom, he’s built movement into his daily routine with a morning “thank you” walk and prioritizing self before going into work. And for about 30 minutes at the end of the day, he walks to help the transition between work and home, as a thank you for getting through the day.

Travis Welcome speaks at a buildOn event.
Travis celebrating buildOn Oakland students at the 2024 Better Together concert. 

His advice to other walkers who may be nervous to join? Start small and start slow. “Start with a brisk walk down the block. Make it down the street, halfway around the block, and then fully around your block. Or start with time–five minutes to start, 10, or 15. Start wherever you’re comfortable.” 

He also highly recommends some “jammin’ vibes!” Travis says, “That is key! A good playlist will have you moving from New York to Connecticut in no time.” 

Ready to join Travis in the Steps for Students challenge? Sign up now!

Travis Welcome is walking in buildOn's Steps for Students challenge in honor of his mom.