GENTE means People in Spanish. GENTE is an acronym for "Gustosos, con Entusiasmo Nos dedicamos Todos a caminar con Energía" (Dedicate Ourselves to Walking with Pleasure, Enthusiasm and Energy). It is a community organized group at The Latina Center located in Richmond whose mission is to promote physical exercise in nature with the purpose of improving health outcomes and well-being of their community and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as obesity and diabetes. It also educates and informs the community on benefits of walking in nature, drinking water, nutrition, staying hydrated, eating healthy and family cohesion. This information is provided to participants through workshops prior to the walk. This is accomplished with the support and leadership of Eugenia Araque (community leader) and EBRPD.
During each walk, the group participates on community building activities that involved meditation, laughter yoga, stretching exercises guided by their own community members. The Volunteer Trail Safety Patrol (VTSP) joins the walks to provide safety and facilitate emergency situations if any arises. After the walks, the group reflects on their experience and talk about what motivates them to keep walking in nature everyday.
> Walking to Wellness (2018, May 25). Visión Hispana. Newspaper Article (English) & (Spanish).
GENTE Walks:
- Point Pinole Regional Shoreline
- Kennedy Grove Regional Recreational Area
- Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline - (Multicultural Wellness Walk)
- Wildcat Canyon Regional Park
- Point Pinole Regional Shoreline
- Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline
Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, Richmond, February 3, 2018
The group gathered at Point Pinole for a 2.5 hour walk along the Bay View Trail to the Fishing Pier. After the walk, the group enjoyed a healthy lunch provided by the Park District.
Kennedy Grove Regional Recreational Area, El Sobrante, February 24, 2018
The group walked along the Kennedy Creek Trail to the Black Oak Loop Trail. They enjoyed a beautiful view of the park land. After the walk, they participated in games.
Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline, Richmond, March 10, 2018
Participants learned about common shorebirds and history of the Santa Fe Railway and Ferry Point from Naturalist Sara Fetterly. Fitness Trainer Vince Hall led us through a series of exercises to strengthen the back and core muscles. After the walk, participants engaged in community building activities, which resulted in community bonding and laughter. The walk concluded with a healthy lunch.
Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, Richmond, March 24, 2018
Participants gathered at the park for a 2.5 hour walk along the Wildcat Canyon Pkwy. Eugenia gave to everyone a personalized bookmark that reminds them of the health benefits of drinking water and staying hydrated.
Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, Richmond, April 7, 2018
Participants gathered at the park for a 2.5 hour walk along the Bay View Trail to the Fishing Pier.
Miller/Knox Regional Shoreline, Richmond, April 28, 2018
The group gathered at the park for a 2 hour walk along the coastline and through the Santa Fe Railway and Ferry Point. After the walk, recognition was given to participants who have been consistent with attending all walks and everyone enjoyed a healthy lunch provided by the Park District.
Media Coverage
> Walking to Wellness (2018, May 25). Visión Hispana. Newspaper Article (English) & (Spanish).