The Turkey Creek Banquet Room recently was transformed into a wonderland of white, pink and red decorations fit for a royal court celebration. And many of those attending the Cooperative Special Recreation Initiative Sweetheart Dance said the decor made them feel like royalty.
“It’s so much fun here, everything is so colorful,” said Brenda Osler of Highland at Lake County Parks-sponsored event. “It’s very pretty and everyone likes getting out and seeing different people.”
Geared toward the special needs community, the Valentine-themed dance featured a luncheon, craft project, entertainment and dancing.
“This is a wonderful outlet,” said caretaker Tonya McGhee of the Dungarvian of Indiana organization. “We have four individuals here today that welcome the opportunity to get out among their peers and meet new friends.”
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The social event also provided another benefit — respite for parents of special needs children, according to Geri Wolff of Merrillville.
Wolff and her sister Sandi Hoeckelberg of Cedar Lake brought their nephew Joel Soto to the dance to give their sister, Debbie Soto, a day off.
“It can be very exhausting for parents of special needs children,” Wolff said. “We wanted our sister to have a break.”
This is the second year for the Sweetheart Dance, according to Lake County Parks employee Dawn Robertson.
“This (dance) has proven very popular,” Robertson said. “It’s priceless to see the Moms’ smiles as they watch their kids having so much fun.”
The dance floor was never empty, as guests showed their moves to music played by D.J. Scott Kelly.
“Getting out and exercising is good for the kids,” he said, as he manned his station on the stage. “And this (event) is a good place for the them to relax and be themselves.”
The Cooperative Special Recreation Initiative is a partnership between the parks departments of Crown Point, Dyer, Hammond, Highland, Lake County, Merrillville, Munster, Schererville, St. John and Whiting, as well as Hanover Central High School Key Club, the Hammond Port Authority and several volunteers.
It serves as a cooperative venture seeking ways to increase recreational opportunities for individuals of all ages who have special needs and abilities. More information on the organization is at [email protected] or at www.LakeCountyParks.com.
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance writer for the Post-Tribune.