Innovative programs for older adults are a hallmark of Fox Valley Community Services (FVCS). Without a doubt, FVCS is an agency that is constantly reinventing themselves and challenging themselves to do more for older adults, and to be inclusive in their community.
Now celebrating their 50th year, FVCS is kicking up its heels and planning for a stellar future. Their published calendar of events features parties planned for every month including a special celebration July 23, and the annual Fall Gala in late November. FVCS wants the community to know that it is open, programs are running, and there is hiring.
The Center considers itself much more than a senior center. Based in Sandwich, Ill., at the corner of DeKalb, Kendall, and LaSalle Counties, FVCS serves as a community center for residents of all ages and interests. It has a full calendar of programs offered daily for older adults. During the evenings and weekends the doors open to service organizations such as the Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, as well as private parties and events.
Activities director Becky Lueken continually presents new and innovative projects for seniors, and she stays alert to what’s happening locally. Taking advantage of a recent school district early dismissal day March 11, Becky pulled out all the stops to offer a special program called Generations Playing Together. She invited all kids from kindergarten through third grade to bring their grandparents to the Center. Don’t have a grandparent or one living nearby? No problem. Becky said kids, “can use one of ours.” Her plan was to engage in an intergenerational learning experience and give everyone a chance to play together. Becky plan included lunch offered through the partner agency, Voluntary Action Center, and fun interactive games everyone could enjoy.
Another new idea Becky recently started is Tap-Fit. Who among us hasn’t thought back to those fun days we had years ago in dance class, when we were young and spry? Well, Becky has a plan, a place, and a time of the week when you can dance your way to getting back in shape. She purchased slip-over tap shoes which can be used by class participants and is offering seniors a chance to “Lift your booty, flatten your tummy, and tone under your arms!” The new Tap-Fit class helps older adults improve their heart health, strength, and overall fitness, as they improve their metabolism, reduce anxiety, and stress, and help an individual’s confidence skyrocket! Tap-Fit is offered on Tuesdays at 10 a.m.. Women and men are signing up enthusiastically to participate.
The regular monthly calendar at FVCS includes Wii Bowling, Drum-Fit chair exercise, line dancing, a writer’s club, the Nanas & the Papas sing-a-longs, and board games such as Mexican Train Dominos, and, of course, Bingo! In addition, several special interest groups have regular meetings at the Center. There is an Alzheimer’s support group that meets every third Thursday at 1 p.m..
A group of crafters who enjoys crochet, makes novelty hats for children fighting rare illnesses and cancers. The Litte Cancer Fighters take donated yarns to create beautiful wigs and hats that can be purchased at the Center. It’s part of the FVCS Seniors With a Purpose program. They meet for workshops Friday mornings from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m..
For those seniors who are interested in these ideas, for those who want to try out other new innovations, and for those who want to make a difference in the future of FVCS, executive director Suzanne Kinsey is offering monthly coffees at 9 a.m. on the first Thursday of each month. It’s all part of the greater mission of FVCS, which offers in home services, and adult day services.
In addition to the great programs offered at FVCS, through its partnership with VAC older adults nutrition. Transportation needs can be met too. For more information contact the center at 815-786-9404 or visit the website at www.fvoas.org.
Barb Nadeau is the community relations manager for the Voluntary Action Center of Northern Illinois, representing five counties. Barb has worked many years as a professional television and radio host, as well as a print and social media journalist, and as a volunteer coordination professional, networking amongst non-profit social service agencies throughout Illinois. She is a freelance writer and an elected alderman in the city government of Plano. Contact Barb at bvnadeau@gmail.com.