"It is two hours of letting go of your troubles and worries," says Sheila Alsup, referring to the community dance in Dexter hosted by American Legion Kenady-Hanks Post 59. The dance is a joint effort between the Legion and Legion Auxiliary as a community service.
"The dance came about," explains Alsup, who is president of Auxiliary Unit 59, "after I heard a presentation from local ARC director, Sherry Jines."
Jines talked about the need for community integration activities for ARC clients.
"The organization receives funding for participating and taking clients to community activities, but were limited on the opportunities that were available. I thought this sort of project could be a win/win for the community, the developmentally disabled, and the Legion/Auxiliary," Alsup points out.
Alsup proposed a community dance, open to the public and sponsored by the Legion/Auxiliary. Her idea was approved, and the weekly dances began in June. The Legion collects a $3 entry fee, and the Auxiliary sells concessions. The minimal fees go toward building expenses and other community service projects.
"It is a safe, alcohol-free environment and everyone is welcome," Alsup says.
The dance is held on Monday evenings at the American Legion building, located across from West Park. The dance begins at 6:30 and music is provided by Legion member Les Barker, who serves as DJ.
Alsup observes that community attendance has been low so far, but she is hopeful that more people will feel compelled to come share the festivities, as word of the gathering spreads.
"It is a fun-filled evening for everyone who attends," Alsup says. "The Legion and Auxiliary volunteers enjoy visiting with the guests, and the activity provides the developmentally disabled clients with a break from their day-to-day routine."
"Some of those who attend don't dance at all; some only dance to their favorite songs; then, others never sit down," she adds smiling.
Alsup says many who attend the weekly event are from The ARC day activity center; others work at the Stoddard County Sheltered Workshop; some are employed at Stoddard County Progressive Industries and Echoes; and still others attend day activities with Specialty Products and Services. The participants come from Dexter, Bernie and Puxico.
"I know many of the clients because I worked with them when they were younger," explains Alsup, who is a physical therapist, "but now I just get to hang out with them and be their friend. It is pure joy to watch them dance and have fun; plus, I have a good time, too."
The highlight of the weekly event is the much-anticipated drawing for prizes. Upon entering, attendees receive an attendance ticket. During the course of the evening, tickets are drawn for free admission to the next dance and for free concessions.
"Shouts of joy, or moans of disappointment can be heard as tickets are scanned for the winning numbers," Alsup relates.
There are a few favorite songs that get most in attendance out on the floor. "Long Black Train," "I'll Fly Away," "Cotton-Eyed Joe," and "Macarena" are among the more popular choices.
"Preparing for the weekly event is not without some effort," Alsup explains, "but the Legion/Auxiliary volunteers are happy to contribute their time."
The tables and chairs must be set up, then often taken down again at the end of the evening, and the concessions are restocked. Volunteers are at the door to collect the cover charge and volunteers also man the concession room.
In reflecting on the objective of the dances, Alsup observes, "The dances not only provide interaction between the local community and the developmentally disabled, but are an opportunity for all who attend to simply hang out together, enjoy each other's company, and have a good time."