Line dance to health

“I’ve been dancing since my school days in England and began to study many forms of dance in the 1970’s”, enthuses dance teacher Doris Waywell when asked why she is volunteering her time to teach seniors how to line dance. “People can have fun and help Community Care at the same time” she continued.

Mrs. Waywell came up with the idea to combine fundraising for her favourite charities with her passion for dance and for teaching others. Approaching Debbie Moynes, executive director of Community Care for Seniors, she outlined her idea of offering line dance classes for seniors with the fee going to the agency. The Picton United Church offered free space and Thursday, September 23’rd was chosen as the start date. Seniors can pay $6.00 each per class – 2:00pm to 3:00pm – or pay $20.00 in advance for 4 classes.

Line dancing is a fun way to meet other people. The music is cheerful, steps are easy, no partner is needed and a background in dance isn’t required. Beginners can have a great time while developing their coordination, agility and balance, relieving stress and it’s great exercise, too. Line dancing is a form of dance that is not restricted to the young and agile. It’s fun at any age.

“Doris is an inspiration,” comments Moynes. “We’re so pleased to be involved in her project to help seniors have fun, get some exercise, and to support community agencies.”

Doris Waywell holds a teachers certificate from the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society and the Canadian Dance Teachers Association and is a member of the Line Dance Teachers Association. She has been teaching for over 25 years with her seniors line dancing group – the Happy Hoofers – still dancing after 15 years.

If Mrs. Waywell’s fundraising idea takes off she plans to keep going to benefit other organizations, including Hospice Prince Edward and the library. For more information or to register, call Community Care for Seniors at 476-7493.

The Prince Edward County Community Care for Seniors Association provides community support services to eligible seniors and adults with physical disabilities who reside in Prince Edward. Services include transportation, Meals on Wheels, seniors’ dinners, foot care clinics, assistance with forms, and reassurance programs

For information on these and other programs call Community Care at 476-7493, stop in at the office located at The Armoury, 206 Main Street, Picton, or check the website at www.communitycareforseniors.org