Mar. 22, 2012
If you are sixty or older, a resident of Scioto County and looking for fun-filled activities, you may want to consider signing up for the Golden Bears program at Shawnee State University. Sign-ups will begin the first week of April in the lobby of the Warsaw Natatorium in the James A. Rhodes Athletic Center.
"It's a holistic program for people who want to socialize and exercise, free of charge," said Barb Pratt, program coordinator. "For some people this is the only means of socialization they have. They live alone so the program gives them the opportunity to meet other people who are probably in the same situation they are."
Besides the socialization aspect of the program Pratt said Golden Bear members are authorized to use the athletic facilities at the university including the pool free of charge. She said members also participate in Zumba and water aerobics classes as well as other activities. The Golden Bears also serve as ushers at Vern Riffe Center for the Arts, help with campus mailings and work with the Hike for Hospice.
Funded through a grant from the Scioto County Commissioners 450 individuals participated in the Golden Bears program last year. Pratt said those who were members last year still need to renew their membership by filling out a new application.
"When they fill out their application they need to list their medications or bring a separate sheet with their medications listed," Pratt said. "They also need to bring something to show they meet the age requirement and they are a resident of Scioto County."
For more information about the Shawnee State University Golden Bears program, contact Barb Pratt at (740) 351-3493 or Jonna Cook at (740) 351-3285.