The Bayside Community Center was a nice divergence from what we had gotten at most of the center tours that we had gone on. As opposed to the previous tours where we had learned more about the center from its leads/managers in a traditional tour style, we started right away into a zumba class held at the center multiple days a week. It was an interesting way to understand the programming offered for the seniors by participating in the programs ourselves. The class was quite rigorous as I found myself quite tired by the end. However, it was also super fun and it was even more encouraging to push through it when we saw how into it the seniors were. The instructor was super enthusiastic and really encouraged a warm welcoming environment, which was good for people who tend to shy away from activities like these from embarrassment.
I noticed that the class was not only a good way to keep everyone physically active, but also a good way to socialize and meet people. I recall one of the women being very outgoing, even going to all the students to sign her card. Following the zumba class, we had the opportunity to chat with some of the attendees who stayed behind. We spoke with a woman named Zenny, who came with her husband. She told us they came to the center four times a week to participate in the classes and always looks forward to it. By participating in the class and engaging with the seniors, I was able to understand how important programs like this are and the multitude of benefits they bring.
I noticed that the class was not only a good way to keep everyone physically active, but also a good way to socialize and meet people. I recall one of the women being very outgoing, even going to all the students to sign her card. Following the zumba class, we had the opportunity to chat with some of the attendees who stayed behind. We spoke with a woman named Zenny, who came with her husband. She told us they came to the center four times a week to participate in the classes and always looks forward to it. By participating in the class and engaging with the seniors, I was able to understand how important programs like this are and the multitude of benefits they bring.