Queens is treated to rendition of The Wizard of Oz

(Springfield Gardens, NY)-“Follow the Yellow Brick Road, Follow the Yellow Brick Road” was repeated throughout the show by actors as well as audience members during a rendition of The Wizard of Oz presented by adult participants in HeartShare Human Services of New York’s Queens Day Habilitation (Hab) Program. Program participants, all of whom are developmentally disabled, were excited to showcase their version of this play for community guests and staff members.

In addition to their musical and theatrical activities, participants engage in a variety of volunteer, work and recreational activities in the community, including working at The Salvation Army, serving lunch at a local senior center, and attending an occasional Broadway show—all part of their day-to-day program activities. This holiday showcase allowed program participants to display their talent as well as demonstrate the new skills they are learning under the direction of long-time Queens Day Hab staff member Betty Green.

Betty Green has worked at HeartShare for 11 years. As the director of the holiday showcase, she takes pride in working with program participants to put on a wonderful show for guests. “The program participants are excited about their performance because they like to entertain people,” says Betty. “Each year audiences compliment the show, which helps build their confidence and self-esteem and inspires them to perform better the following year.” Program participants are hands on while preparing for the show—along with performing. they assist staff members with making costumes and scenery.

To see a showing of The Wizard of Oz contact Betty Green at Queens Day Hab at (718) 281-0480. To learn more about HeartShare programs within the Queens community, log on to www.heartshare.org or contact (718) 422-4200 for more information.

Celebrating its 93rd year, HeartShare is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that assists more than 17,000 New Yorkers. Its wide spectrum of services helps children and adults with developmental disabilities, supports people affected by HIV/AIDS, provides counseling and after-school programs and assistance with foster care and adoption to children and families, and administers energy assistance programs.
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