They may have silver in their hair, but they have pep in their step. The Silver Steppers, who live in the Smith Crossing retirement community in Orland Park, put on a dance performance for students studying Recreation Therapy at Moraine Valley Community College.
The seasoned dancers started line dancing in 2016 and officially formed a dance group in 2018 thanks to Moraine Valley alumna and Smith Crossing volunteer coordinator, Shelly Genis, who graduated from the Recreation Therapy program run by Dr. Donna McCauley, professor and coordinator of Recreation Therapy/Recreation and Sport Management.
Students from the college’s Older Adult Recreation and Wellness class not only enjoyed a performance, but also interacted with the dancers. The group danced for an hour, interspersed with trivia and a Q&A, and had everyone up doing the Electric Slide at the end. They even sang personalized lyrics to the tune of “Hello Dolly.” Afterward, students interacted with the seniors, giving them a chance to learn more about their sure-footed guests and understand additional details about the career path they are following.
“Students pursuing careers in Recreation Therapy, and Recreation and Sport Management will be planning and implementing programs for active seniors. The opportunity for our students to be exposed to this creative program implemented by a Recreation Therapy alumna, who works at Smith Crossing, was invaluable to observe,” McCauley said. “It was a tremendous experience for our students to observe the role of a professional implementing a program demonstrating leadership skills. It was truly inspirational for all involved.”
PHOTO CAPTION: Moraine Valley Community College students studying Recreation Therapy are treated to a dance performance by women from Smith Crossing—Silver Steppers.
