Love is in the air and La Verne is excited to host its annual Sweetheart's Dance for individuals with special needs on Friday, February 10 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m! The dance will be held at the La Verne Community Center and is sponsored by the Order of the Alhambrans.
"The City of La Verne is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community for all of its residents, and events like the Sweetheart's Dance are a testament to that promise,” said Mayor Tim Hepburn. “We recognize that every member of our community has unique needs and should have the opportunity to participate in events and activities that bring joy and connection. I am proud of our Community Services Department who works tirelessly to make sure that all members of our community are represented and included in all aspects of civic life."
Attendees can enjoy refreshments, dance to a DJ and have an opportunity to celebrate love with their peers! The Sweetheart’s Dance is open to community members of all ages with special needs and their families. The Community Services Department will be there to offer a safe and welcoming environment for everyone to have a great time.
All attendees are required to fill out an activity form, which must be signed by the participant or legal guardian. Tickets for the event can be purchased at the City of La Verne Community Services Office, located inside City Hall. Interested attendees are encouraged to purchase their tickets as soon as possible, as space is limited and the event is expected to sell out. Pre-sale tickets are $6 or guests can purchase tickets at the door for $7.
“The Sweethearts Dance is a special event that the Community Services Department is proud to produce every year,” said Community Services Manager Yvonne Duran. “We have been blessed in past years to have so many people turn out for the Sweetheart’s Dance. This year, I encourage everyone to purchase their tickets as early as possible to lock in their spot for the event.”
In addition to the Sweetheart's Dance, the City of La Verne promotes inclusivity through various community programs and local resources, such as the IMPACT program offered by Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC). The program promotes independent living for those with intellectual disabilities and helps participants develop self-advocacy skills. It also offers classes ranging from mobility and physical health to college, career and technology. The City also has an Inclusion Advisory Group to make sure people with disabilities are represented in community activities. The group regularly looks for new ways to make City services more accessible and encourages residents to share ideas by contacting the Community Services Department at (909) 596-8776.
For more information on the IMPACT Program and other classes offered by Mt. SAC, please call (909) 274-4192 or visit the college website. For more information about the Sweetheart’s Dance, call the Community Services Department at (909) 596-8700.