ORLANDO, Fla. - Lydia Rivera, lead AARP Orlando volunteer and organizer of AARP's Walk with a Doc initiative in Kissimmee has been elected as Walk with a Doc's newest member of their Board of Directors. Rivera, a retired, bilingual nurse practitioner of over 40 years, has hosted walks since January of this year and made a huge contribution to improving the health and wellness of the 50+ community in Central Florida.
"Lydia's extensive background in nursing and her dedication to improving community health make her a perfect fit for the Board of Directors," explains Bryan Romey, Program Manager at Walk with a Doc. "We are so excited for her to bring her on-the-ground experience as a Walk Leader in Orlando to the table."
"AARP Florida is extremely proud of Lydia and her accomplishments as a lead volunteer in Central Florida," said Jeff Johnson, AARP Florida State Director. "She is a consistent advocate for healthy living and brain health through her volunteerism and is very deserving of this honor."
Rivera was recruited to join Walk with a Doc by her daughter and AARP Orlando Associate State Director of Outreach and Engagement, Yazmin Alfonso. Alfonso and her mother founded AARP's Walk with a Doc initiatives in Osceola County to ensure that the area's population - particularly those in the Hispanic community - had a space to converse with a licensed medical practitioner in their own language. In a world where lack of insurance, language barriers, and immigration status all play a role in receiving primary care, Rivera's monthly Walk with a Docs are a place to gather, exercise, and learn as a community.
"Lydia doesn't just talk about healthy living -- she lives it every day, inspiring others through her tireless commitment and passion for the cause," expresses Alfonso. "Her journey is a true testament to the power of living with purpose and heart."
Rivera's passion for Walk with a Doc is only growing; in fact, AARP Florida is also proud to announce that she will be hosting a new set of AARP-sponsored walks in Brevard County beginning in January 2025. Now, even more residents in Central Florida will be able to receive her care and take a step towards a healthier future.
For more information on AARP's Walk with a Doc initiatives, please visit aarp.org/Orlando, as well as our walk pages in Kissimmee and Merritt Island.