A second inclusive dance party led by young people is planned for Friday, September 9, after the inaugural event in June was a huge success, attracting more than 60 people.
The Waves inclusive dances are organised by a planning committee of young people with disabilities who are supported by the Terrigal Rotary Club, and not-for-profit NDIS Partner in the Community, Social Futures.
Andie Poetschka is on the planning committee for the Waves Central Coast Inclusive Dance Party with seven other young people aged from 18 to 25.
She said they started Waves because there weren’t enough community events on the Central Coast where young people with disabilities felt safe and welcome.
“Our aim was to do something for people over 18 on the Central Coast, where they could just be treated as adults,” Poetschka said.
“It’s made for people with disabilities, by people with disabilities, and there is a live band.
“A lot of people with disabilities may not have had the opportunity to see live music and experience that, so that is a really special thing.
“This is an event where we can be free, dance if we want, have a drink if we want and be treated like adults, like we want to be treated, and not feeling like we’re being ‘looked after’.”
Poetschka said because a planning committee of young people “built it from the ground up”, young people felt like the dances were truly for them.
“We had an amazing time at the dance in June, the live band was great, everyone enjoyed it,” she said.
“I got feedback from one young woman saying this was the highlight of her year because she had never had the opportunity before to go to something like that and just have fun.
“It was really special to see – everyone with and without disabilities – just being themselves and feeling welcome and included.”
The Waves dances are held at the Central Coast Leagues Club.
There is a $15 entry fee to cover expenses, including the cost of the band and venue.
“We are hoping to build on the success of the last dance and we want more people to get involved and enjoy this inclusive social event,” Social Futures’ Community Development Coordinator, Scott Jones, said.
“The young people on the planning committee are looking forward to attracting a good turn out to ensure the dance is part of the Central Coast landscape for years to come.
“The Waves Dances are a great example of community providing for community.”
The next Waves Dance will be held at Central Coast Leagues Club from 7-10pm on Friday,
September 9.
For more information email wavesccidp@gmail.com or contact Scott Jones on 0434 312 536
Source:
Media release, Sep 5
Social Futures