Of the news items I get for the Weekly Record, some of the most common are wish lists - donation requests that local groups have, where they're hoping the community will contribute.
Most of them are pretty similar. Canned foods or snacks. Office supplies. Gift cards. The occasional pool or foosball table (usually for a youth center.)
But I recently received a slightly different request from the Heritage Senior Center, 3700-4 Davidsburg Road, Dover Township. The group recently sent in a list of its "wants" so it can continue its mission of helping area senior citizens.
Reading through the list, it seems pretty standard. A new four-drawer file cabinet. Reams of colored copy paper. Chips and trail mix. A box fan. Oh, and a big-screen TV and Wii gaming system!
And meanwhile, I've also heard from other editors here that they've seen senior centers elsewhere request Wiis as well.
I think this is an awesome idea. First of all, it's great exercise. Forget the Dance Dance Revolution workout - this thing can burn some serious calories. It also doesn't have to be high-impact. You move the Wiimote (the controller) at the speed and power that's comfortable to you. But you do move, helping to increase mobility for seniors. And, it's just plain fun. I can think of older family members of mine who used to enjoy sports like bowling or golfing, but who can't do it any more. How cool is it to give them that chance again, even virtually?
So, if your Christmas Wii wasn't all you expected, or if you're just feeling generous, talk to Sandy at the Heritage Senior Center. You can reach her at 292-7471 or sandy.mundis@yahoo.com. (I'm sure she'd love to hear from you if you've got that box fan/copy paper/filing cabinet, too.)
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