Building Community One Step at a Time: The Story Behind LV Girls Who Walk
In a world that often feels isolating, especially in adulthood, finding meaningful connection can be tough. That’s where LV Girls Who Walk steps in— literally. Founded by Summer Sankari Polzer, the group has quickly become a vibrant hub for women’s empowerment, community, and connection across the Lehigh Valley. What began as a simple idea to bring women together through walking has quickly evolved into a powerful movement.
How It All Started
Inspired by the founder of City Girls Who Walk in NYC, Summer saw an opportunity to bring a similar vibe to the Lehigh Valley. “I thought it was such a great idea,” she shares, “I saw that there was a need for something like this for women to come together and make connections/new friends while getting exercise.”
Originally envisioned as a casual walking group for women, similar to the LV Road Runners but with a slower pace, LV Girls Who Walk has evolved into something much more. It’s now a community where networking, friendship, and support thrive naturally.
Rooted in Local Culture and Upbringing
Growing up in Allentown, Summer spent her childhood at local parks with her family— picnicking, walking, and simply enjoying nature. “My family and I used to have all-day hangouts and picnics at the Allentown parks since coming to America. That connection to nature and community definitely inspired me to start LVGWW.”
Today, many group walks still take place in those same parks— bringing it all full circle.
Making a Local Impact
LV Girls Who Walk isn’t just a walking club, it’s a movement for mindful connection and sisterhood. It’s about giving women a space to be themselves, meet others, and build lasting bonds. The group has already made a difference by helping women across the Lehigh Valley find community, support and inspiration and Summer plans to keep that energy going!
When asked what brings her the most joy, she responded, “Honestly just meeting so many amazing women in the Lehigh Valley from all different backgrounds and seeing them gain connections and become friends with each other.”
The Reality of Running a Community-Led Business
While Summer always admired the freedom of entrepreneurship, she’s learned the realities too. “While it is great being your own boss, you are also constantly available to your brand and others and have to put in so much work behind the scenes.” she explains.
Her biggest advice? “Really own it and have confidence. Never feel like an imposter or that you are not allowed in certain spaces.” She credits her mother, a lifelong entrepreneur, with instilling that fearless mindset early on.
Who is Summer, Beyond the Brand
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Introvert
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Read the book then watch the movie
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Cooking, baking, and hanging with her dog and husband
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I am good at so many things that I do, and need to shake the imposter syndrome.
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Have confidence, come out of your shell, and realize that you are THAT GIRL and can take up space.
Upcoming Event: Summer Walk + Talk Series at Allentown Rose Gardens 🌸
We’re so excited to invite you to the first Summer Walk & Talk Series event on Saturday, July 13th at 10 AM at the beautiful Allentown Rose Gardens!
We’ll be diving into conversations about women empowerment, building community, and conscious living with me, Jenni, founder of Jentle Land Mark. There will be time to walk, chat, and wrap up with a grounding reflection and affirmations in nature. It’s a low-pressure, high-vibe way to connect with like-minded women and be part of something meaningful in the Lehigh Valley.
📅 Date: Saturday, July 13
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM
📍 Location: Allentown Rose Gardens
Come as you are— bring a friend or come solo. Either way, you’ll leave feeling connected and inspired.
