WASHINGTON, D.C. (7News) — President Sharon Goods, Jim Moss, and Dr. Regina Romero joined Good Morning Washington Thursday to share Wisdom Walker’s 26-mile journey. The team climbed at an elevation of nearly 14,000 feet on the Inca Trail to Manchu Picchu in Cusco, Peru.
“We’re trying to inspire people as they get older to take care of themselves, to workout, to exercise, to set a goal and really work toward it and we definitely got that from the people who joined us on the trek,” Goods said. “We worked really hard and even those who didn’t get to the summit, they still were successful.”
Wisdom Walkers is a nonprofit organization that promotes African American health and education with a mission to encourage healthy living and wellness.
The most recent event in Peru was a private tour from July 11 to July 16. Over 18 Wisdom Walkers joined the trek, which was a stay for four days and three nights. 15 of the members reached Peru’s highest peak.
The active community hopes to influence other aging individuals to conquer their fears and achieve their dreams, regardless of their age.
Moss emphasized that participating in Wisdom Walkers will enable you to live a longer, lead a more healthier life. Romero added that “just starting” is the first step to healthier lifestyles.
President Goods highlighted that the group aims to challenge themselves physically on each outing, including training for about a year before the expedition.
“My wife is part of the Wisdom Walkers, so I decided if she could do it, then I could do it,” Moss said. “We pushed through difficult moments by taking it all one step at a time because that’s all you could do, realizing you could turn around or continue.”
In 2022, Wisdom Walkers made history as the oldest group of black men and women to hike Mount Kilimanjaro, which is 19,000 feet tall and is Africa’s highest and mightiest peak.
The organization accepts donations made by check or to their Zelle account, which supports African American health outreach work.
“If you decide to live healthier, don’t do it alone,” Romero advised. “Having a group is really motivating and supportive because every weekend that we’re out there I know that we are all waiting for each other, so it’s very helpful.”
For more information on Wisdom Walkers resources, upcoming events, and donation sources, visit their website here.
