Like everyone these days, the way we (Western DuPage Special Recreation Association) serve the community has changed. We count ourselves as extremely lucky in that we were able to adapt quickly.
Also like many others, we not only had to think outside the box, but we literally had to rebuild the box itself. And that’s how Virtual Recreation Programs were developed.
With more than 2 ½ months of virtual programming now under our belts, I have witnessed the resilience of our participants, young and not so young, to adapt to a new way of making recreation a part of their lives.
Though there was certainly a learning curve, it was quickly replaced by the excitement of seeing friends on the screen, the enjoyment of new activities to engage in and the joy that is once again a part of their lives.
Along the way, I am reminded about some “universal lessons” that our participants, and to some degree all of us, live by.
First, whether in person or over Zoom, the combination of music, dancing and friends is a winner…always! Our dances are always the most popular programs. They continue to be the most popular programs even now that they are held virtually. The only difference now is that living rooms are being turned into dance floors. And with Zoom, everyone can get a spotlight!
Next, while calling, emailing, texting, or messaging are all good ways to socially connect, there is nothing that can be substituted for seeing someone’s eyes and smile in real time.
As windows to the soul, the eyes can clue us into the emotions of the person we are with. Likewise, a smile too can punctuate a person’s emotions. Together, they can lift our spirits at a time when we need it most… even if it is via a computer.
Finally, we all share a basic need to connect, to interact, to share and to be heard. Social interaction is like the dessert of life. It is something you look forward to beforehand, savor during and sustains you afterwards! Virtual programs have made it possible for our participants to once again be connected, not feel isolated and bring back the joy that was taken away at the very beginning of this pandemic.
While we hope to get back to in-person programs as soon as safely possible, we are all navigating the “new normal.” For now, we continue to bring connections, engagement and joy to all of our participants… just virtually for now.
Stay healthy! Stay safe! We will see you soon!
