On a beautiful summer evening, 31 neighbors and one enthusiastic pup joined the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council (WRWC) for our very first all-Spanish walking tour of the Greenway! Led by the incredible María José, Co-Facilitator of our Nuevas Voces program, the walk began at Riverside Park and made its way to the Manton Avenue Skate Park. Along the way, participants discovered local landmarks, learned about the history and ecology of the river, and shared in community joy—all completely in Spanish.
María José brought a unique magic to the tour. A former tour guide in her home country of Bolivia, María José found comfort and connection walking the Greenway after she moved to Rhode Island. Her personal journey led her to Nuevas Voces, first as a participant and now as a Co-Facilitator. Hosting this walk was a full-circle moment: sharing the very trails she once explored alone with a vibrant, welcoming group of neighbors.
At the end of the walk, we celebrated with juicy slices of watermelon, cold drinks, and surprise medals for everyone who joined. It was a joyful evening of language, laughter, and community pride.
Muchas gracias to all who came, and especially to María José for guiding us with warmth, knowledge, and heart.
