Couples affected by disability, whether they have a disability themselves or care for a child or another loved one with special needs, are invited to attend a dinner and square dance that will be presented at Brick Lane Community Church, 52 S. Brick Lane, Elverson, on Saturday, March 2.
This year, for the first time, the event will be offered free of charge by the church's Disability Ministry. "Last year, we added child care for the attendees' children, and it was well received," noted Curtis Hoke, a member of the Disability Ministry and a wheelchair user. "This year, we have made the whole event free. (We decided), 'Let's make it a gift.'"
On the night of the event, attendees will be asked to sign in at the welcome desk beginning at 4:30 p.m. A buffet dinner will begin at 5 p.m.
Following dinner at 5:45 p.m., a brief inspirational message will be provided by Curtis, who suffered a spinal cord injury in 1983, and his wife, Carol, who will share their story. After a small break, square dancing take place from 6:15 to 8 p.m.
Stefan Menger, a professional caller, will once again lead the dancers. "He is used to working with groups that are unfamiliar with square dancing," said Curtis.
Curtis emphasized that attendees are not required to take part in the dances. "People can come for the fellowship; you don't have to dance," he said, noting that the venue will offer soft incandescent lighting to add to the ambience.
Once again, free on-site child care will be offered for all children, whether or not they have a disability. When people register, they will be asked if their child has any special needs or requests.
Since the dinner and square dance event is for adults only, child care will be offered in separate areas. "This year, there will be two rooms, including a small quiet room," explained Curtis. "Sometimes children or young adults with developmental disabilities prefer a quieter room. There will also be a large room for games and running around." Curtis noted that the child care workers have experience in working with people with disabilities.
The square dance and dinner will take place in the church's fellowship hall, located below the sanctuary space. Both levels of the church are handicapped-accessible from inside and outside, and an elevator is available.
In order to ensure that enough food is prepared, attendees are asked to register in advance at http://www.brick52.org/squaredance or by calling 610-286-6790. The registration deadline is Saturday, Feb. 23.
In addition to the square dance, the Disability Ministry holds a Queen for a Day program in October, which is a day of pampering for women who are caregivers to family members with disabilities. During the event, which is led by Carol, women are provided with free hair cuts, manicures and pedicures.
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