Learn About Us

Corazon Caminante promotes physical and mental well-being through outdoor exercise, connection with nature, and community building. Through walks for all fitness levels, recreational and cultural activities, and arts & crafts, we encourage an active lifestyle and an appreciation for the natural environment. Our inclusive space strengthens mental health by providing a sense of belonging, the opportunity to meet new people, and the formation of genuine friendships, thus creating strong bonds within the community.

Walks ~ Community ~ Friendship

Kim

"Last October, I finally decided to participate in the group walks my friend Silvia Zapata co-leads with other wonderful women, and it's been life-changing! During this time (winter), it's hard for me to move around, go outside, and get up early because Minnesota winters aren't easy, but now I'm less afraid of the cold and I love visiting new parks every week and meeting super-nice women to share in the community with. What a great gift Silvia and the entire Corazon Caminante team have given us! We are so grateful!"

Rossi

“…I want to thank Corazon Caminante for the satisfaction of achievement I feel every time we walk as a group. Since I joined Corazon Caminante, my life has changed. Not only have I discovered new and beautiful places, but I've also made new and wonderful friends, with whom I've shared and learned a lot. The women of Corazon Caminante are all intelligent, brave, cheerful, and persevering people who motivate me greatly. At Corazon Caminante, I also discovered the value of friendship, responsibility, respect, and commitment. But the most beautiful thing about Corazon Caminante is that we always find good fellowship, much happiness, lots of hugs, and good parties...”

Amanda

"...I feel very excited about walking every Sunday (with Corazon Caminante), getting to know different parks and mingling with nature; sharing pleasant moments on the walks and at the events held. Being part of this group has motivated me to always be on the move. I feel more energetic, optimistic, confident, and empathetic..."

2024 Achivments

52 walks (Sundays)
42 different parks across Minnesota and Wisconsin
28 Cities
276 miles total
374 active members, and counting
Sponsored by Dakota County Parks: Kayaking, Night Walk at the park, Women's Camp, Cross-country Skiing, Snowshoeing
Sponsored by Dakota County Parks: Hispanic Heritage Month Event
Sponsored by Scott County and Three Rivers Park: Day of the Dead
La Palencana (Mexican theatrical play)
Paso a Paso (Step to It Challenge): (37 participants)
- Hennepin County program to promote physical activity amongst the latino community
- Corazon Caminante won 1st place, with largest number of participants and most active group (more steps accumulated)
- CCX Media Interview to promote event:

https://youtu.be/D7qbde5-WDg?si=cvzFADv0ZIgGCEUD

Mile in My Shoes (45 Participants)
- 2024 Downtown Run Around 5K Marathon
- Corazon Caminante won 1st place, largest number of participants from same group/associacion
Encuentra tus 5 (Find your 5, Fruit and Vegetable Challenge) (28 Participants)
- Hennepin County 4 week program to promote healthier eating
- Corazon Caminante won 1st place, most fruits and vegetable portions per group, largest latino group participating
Fiesta Latina Con o Sin Nieve: (over 500 participants)
- Dakota County Parks event to promote outdoor activity and park visitation
- Corazon Caminante provided the largest number of volunteers to assist during the event (21 volunteers)
Fall Fest:
- Three Rivers Park event at Gale Woods Farm (over 500 participants)
- Corazon Caminante provided the largest number of volunteers to assist during the event (15 volunteers)
Wooza Paloza
- Mile in My Shoes 5K Marathon (16 participants)
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Anual Mall of America walk (33 participants)
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): (18 participants)
- Mental Awareness Walk and resources event by NAMI

Meet our Leadership Team

Silvia Zapata

Executive Director

Founder of Corazon Caminante, Silvia has found her true passion in outdoor activities and serving others. With a clear vision and a dedicated heart, she understands that building community can alleviate many of the causes of isolation and loneliness, providing people with a space for connection and support.

As a key leader, Silvia is the key liaison with park developers, sponsors, and collaborators, ensuring that Corazon Caminante continues to grow and offer opportunities for the well-being of our community. Her commitment and dedication have been fundamental in helping Corazon Caminante's mission continue, strengthening bonds and transforming lives.

Lorena Hurtado

Director of Operations

Founder of Corazon Caminante, Lorena has dedicated herself to group activities. Thanks to her commitment and precision, each activity is carried out in a timely and structured manner, ensuring that our community always has spaces to connect, walk, and grow together.

Her work not only maintains the pace of our weekly publications and special events, but also ensures that each event runs smoothly and successfully. Lorena is a key player in the functioning of Corazon Caminante, an example of dedication and love for our community and our group's mission.

Deidania Alcazar

Director of Media and Marketing

Founder of Corazon Caminante, better known as Dei, is passionate about photography. With her talent and dedication, she gives us unforgettable memories at every event, capturing the best moments in photos and videos. Her work is crucial, allowing us to relive and share the essence of our community through images full of emotion and meaning.

But her contribution goes beyond photography. Dei works tirelessly to meet all the group's needs, always willing to support and contribute her creativity and commitment. Her passion for Corazon Caminante is reflected in every detail, leaving an indelible mark on our history and in the hearts of those who are part of this great family.

Yuyu Godinez

Director of Events

Yuyu is pure and tireless energy; her joy and enthusiasm are contagious, making each event a memorable experience for our community. Yuyu is responsible for organizing special activities that strengthen the bonds between our members and provide moments of fun, learning, and connection with nature.

Her creativity and desire to serve others are reflected in every detail, from event planning to the execution of activities that enrich our mission. She is a pillar of Corazon Caminante, an example of dedication and passion for the well-being of others.

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