Washington YMCA latest group ‘The Social Scene’ seeking volunteers

The Washington YMCA has become home to the Social Scene, a program designed to service special-needs individuals in Washington County, and they are looking for volunteers.

Angie Goodwin, Marketing and Fundraising Director for the Y, said the idea for the Social Scene stemmed from the special-needs community needing a new place to congregate after not being able to meet at their former location. Every Tuesday from 3-5 p.m., all members of the community are invited to attend for an afternoon of activities and socialization.

Terri Hartzler, Branch Manager in Washington, said a specific activity is chosen each week and repeats in a scheduled pattern. Since the program's beginning April 2, they have been averaging about 35 people per time.

'It's been constant,” she said. 'The same people have come every week. They really, really enjoy it.”

Hartzler said the Social Scene is open to everyone and volunteers are especially wanted and appreciated.

'We want people to volunteer and participate. We want this to be a community type thing that's not only for this group of people. It's for everyone,” she said.

Vanessa Widler, hourly supervisor at Systems Unlimited, said she enjoys coming to the Social Scene every week because of the joy the participants get from the situation.

'They love to socialize. This gives them a chance in a (comfortable) setting,” she said.

Widler said five agencies, Optimae, the Washington YMCA, Arc, WCDC and Systems Unlimited, are represented in the program. Because some organizations are in Johnson County, this program allows participants to get together and interact with people they do not see often.

She said she would like to see an increase in volunteers because the special-needs community is part of the Washington community and by making new friendships and building bonds, the community can grow stronger.

Goodwin said the Y is happy to host the Social Scene and is looking forward to more continued success in the future. She said all are welcome to join and looks forward to community participation in the future.

'Socialization is key to this and getting them integrated to the community,” she said. 'I always say in giving we receive.”

The Social Scene meets every Tuesday from 3-5 p.m. on the third floor of the Washington YMCA. Anyone wishing to participate or volunteer is encouraged to contact Angie Goodwin or Terri Hartzler at the Washington YMCA at 319-653-2141.