Allies’ management and leadership are pleased to announce the introduction of the Old Bridge Social Group, a bi-weekly get-together for folks receiving Allies support services who live in the Old Bridge section of New Jersey.
The group first got together in July for some ice-breaking games and refreshments. Since then, the festivities have grown to include karaoke, dance parties, games to involve the whole group, and a lot of positive energy.
Attendees dance to music while more folks arrive for the festivities.
“These types of events are beneficial because they allow our folks to get together more regularly and get to know each other,” Damaris Rodriguez, director at Allies, said. “It has been going great so far. Everyone looks forward to it each week and have really enjoyed the variety of fun activities.”
The primary goal for the gatherings, other than fun, is to support folks from Allies in meeting their neighbors and engaging with them through structured events and activities.
Conducting and facilitating the group is a lot of work for one person, but the managers who work at the Old Bridge programs have worked together to share the burden and make sure everyone has a great time when attending these groups.
Managers rotate turns planning events, and each one is a little different. Some include pizza dinners, others have karaoke, and other times, a dance party is the main draw.
Sherlyne Moreau, the program manager for Old Bridge and is regularly involved with the planning and facilitation of each event.
“Gathering everybody to spend time together brings me joy,” Moreau said. “Even folks who are a little bit more introverted have been looking forward to and having a great time at the social groups.”
Community is the main focus of the get-togethers. The social groups are held in the apartment building’s community room, which means that folks who live in the building, but do not receive residential support services through Allies are able to participate in the fun. Everyone is welcome to join the festivities, Moreau said.
“I absolutely think that these social group gatherings are beneficial not just for those who attend, but for those who facilitate them as well,” Moreau said. “We have a great opportunity to learn from each other.”