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'Self-directed' seniors generate action
The Glenview Park District provides an environment which
By Richard E. Johns If we truly believe that recreation should be a free choice, then we need to provide opportunities for our senior citizens to direct themselves. The development of the Glenview Senior Citizen Club is one example of the vitality generated by a self-directed program. A cooperative venture The group was founded in 1959 by eight persons; its current membership totals more than 600 seniors. This growth rate took a significant jump in 1978 when the club moved out of an elementary school building and into its own wing of the community center. However, the central reason for the club's steady growth is the responsibility and freedom of self-direction which its members enjoy. The Glenview Park District established a structure for internal leadership at the club's inception. Joyce Pottinger has been leading the group since 1959 when she joined the district as a recreation supervisor. However, in that position she coordinates and implements those programs and plans designated by the club's elected officers and committee chairmen. At a recent awards luncheon, the club president stated, "We continue to be thankful that our park district promotes our ability to direct our own activities and funds. We believe we have earned that respect for our abili- Illinois Parks and Recreation 10 September/October 1986 ty to provide our own leadership with the guidance and assistance of Joyce Pottinger." Special efforts The club's fund-raising activities have included the planning and production of a Christmas bazaar, flea market and food sales at special community events. These fund-raising efforts have enabled the club to give the district $23,500 to cover the expense incurred in air conditioning its wing of the community center. In addition, the club's past fundraising activities have contributed to the purchase of buses to meet its members' needs. The club has provided funds for the purchase of chairs, tables, sewing machines, a piano, a one-person elevator and much of the decorating in the "senior wing." General activities The club's activities are as broad as the members' interests. These include exercise classes, civic topic discussion sessions, book reviews, and craft and ceramic classes. Seniors can also enjoy bridge, choir and band opportunities, assorted trips, investment clubs and a large variety of other social activities. Our park board believes strongly that if the district provides the positive environment which encourages these activities, the seniors will take the steps necessary to make them a reality.
Illinois Parks and Recreation 11 September/October 1986 |
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