As the world began locking down, the Village of Wellington immediately started brainstorming on how to continue serving the community — virtually. Among the questions was how to continue the village’s award-winning recreation programs, despite mandated closures.
Through the new “Virtual Recreation Department,” Wellington’s Parks & Recreation Department found new ways to bring fun and educational activities to residents.
“During this difficult time, where our popular parks and recreational facilities remained closed for weeks, and our residents must practice social distancing, we wanted to provide virtual recreation opportunities for residents of all ages to stay active and healthy,” Parks & Recreation Director Eric Juckett explained. “Through a series of staff discussions, we decided the best way to continue offering our programming was to offer virtual classes using our current instructors.”
With recommendations and policy changes happening almost daily, the team knew that creating a virtual program platform was no simple task. Instructors had to be trained on new tools and technology, while simultaneously rethinking their methods for providing services.
“The greatest challenge that we came across was ensuring security to account for setting up these classes,” said Juckett, who noted that only authenticated users are able to join the online sessions. “I am proud of our Parks & Recreation staff, including Kristine Jarriel, Chris O’Connor, Branden Miller, as well as Jenifer Brito of the Community Services Department, for their hard work and dedication in getting our virtual programming off the ground.”
Participants can gain access to classes ranging from yoga and meditation to crafts and competitive cheerleading. Does your little one miss that tumbling class? Wellington has you covered. Been too shy to try a group class in Expressive Dance or Jazz Funk? Here is the chance to try something new from the comfort of your home. Wellington even offers virtual Zumba classes, including modified and chair options for participants with limitations.
All you need is a device capable of connecting to the internet using the popular Zoom app, such as a smart phone, laptop, tablet or desktop computer. “All of our programs are interesting and engaging. We have programs for all ages from toddlers to seniors. Our virtual bingo is one of our most highly requested programs. Our team had to employ very creative thinking to continue providing this popular program,” Juckett said.
The classes are all offered for free on a first-come, first-served basis, so participants are encouraged to sign up early before a class fills and the registration closes. Classes are often locked once they begin.
“The virtual programs have been very successful. Not only have we consistently seen a large number of people partake in these classes, we have also had participants from other states join in, as well as many new participants who are trying new activities for the first time,” Juckett said. “They will absolutely continue for the time being while we figure out how to adapt to future challenges.”
Since its launch in April, the Virtual Recreation Center has been so effective that the team continues to expand the menu of class offerings. Currently, residents can find a live session to fit their schedule and interests Monday through Saturday. The village also expects to keep offering a variety of classes during the summer months.
Wellington updates the schedule for virtual programs regularly through the village’s social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
While the virtual programs continue to evolve, village officials continue to monitor the changes in recommendations regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. Like much of the country, Wellington is slowly beginning to open some of its in-person offerings.
“Our Aquatics Complex and Tennis Center are now open. The pool is open for lap swimming and every lane is available. The Tennis Center is open for singles and doubles play. Our fields are available for open play for groups of 10 or less at this time,” Juckett said in late May. “We are proud to offer a modified summer camp this summer during these difficult times. We continue to look to add services and programs as we navigate the future.”
The best place to find updates and information about future recreational programming, events and facility openings is www.wellingtonfl.gov/parks.
Wellington’s vision of a Virtual Recreation Center was made possible through sponsorships from various community partners, including Baptist Health South Florida, Wellington Regional Medical Center, Priority Towing, Healthy Partners, Dedicated Senior Medical Center, Florida Blue, the Area Agency on Aging Palm Beach/Treasure Coast, Harbor Chase of Wellington Crossing and Humana.
“We are grateful to our generous community partners for their continued support through these difficult times,” Juckett said. “These programs provide a fantastic service for the residents of Wellington and anyone else who wishes to participate. Many of these excellent programs are an extension of what we normally offer in person, and they have been well-received by our participants accessing them virtually.”
To learn more about Wellington’s virtual programs, e-mail Chris O’Connor at coconnor@wellingtonfl.gov or call (561) 612-6697. To access the Virtual Recreation Center, visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/virtualrec.
