High Point University’s student chapter of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) co-hosted a Valentine’s Day dance for people with disabilities. In an effort to spread love before the holiday, HPU students put together games, crafts and dancing at the Morehead Recreation Center.
An 18-year partnership between High Point University’s Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and High Point Parks and Recreation’s ASPIRE program has brought connection and support to those with intellectual and physical disabilities in the High Point community.
HPU’s CEC is made up of students from diverse majors, and is dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for those with disabilities.
“Our ASPIRE unit through Parks and Recreation is very grateful for the wonderful relationship with High Point University,” ASPIRE Program Coordinator Stephanie Hedgecock said. “The partnership we have with them through the dances promotes inclusion and acceptance.”
CEC Co-President Kaitlyn Townsley, a senior majoring in special education, created bingo cards with visual images for any participant who can’t read but can react to the pictures. Winners will receive Valentine’s-related prizes.
“We are responsible for the food, the desserts and crafts," Townsley said. "Most of our members are education and special education majors, but we have people from all over campus to help with this.”
Sarah Geller, a senior majoring in special education, has participated in these holiday dances since her freshman year.
“High Point University’s main message is: What we get given to us, we should be putting out to our community,” Geller said. "Regardless of the holiday or time of year, this is a place of togetherness and unity."
