HURLEYVILLE – The Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre (HPAC), in partnership with Independent Living Inc., is proud to announce the launch of Steps Forward, a new weekly dance-based wellness program designed for adults and young adults navigating substance use recovery, mental health challenges, and trauma.

Funded in part by the Fedun Family and Ellenville Regional Hospital, Steps Forward provides a supportive, creative space where participants can move, express themselves, and reconnect with their bodies and community. We are especially grateful for the generous support of Ellenville Regional Hospital as a founding sponsor of this program. HPAC is actively seeking additional sponsors to help expand access and sustain this vital program, and we warmly invite community organizations, businesses, and individuals to collaborate with us or share feedback to help enhance Steps Forward.

Steps Forward addresses a critical gap in community-based recovery and wellness programming by using the arts as a pathway to healing. Through movement and shared experiences, participants are encouraged to safely express emotions, reduce isolation, build confidence, and rediscover joy.

The program features weekly two-hour sessions that combine conversation, reflection, and expressive dance. Each gathering includes 60 minutes of group connection and guided reflection and 60 minutes of expressive movement.

Dance sessions are led by dancer Monica Bennett, who brings both technical expertise and lived experience to foster an empathetic and empowering environment for participants. The program is currently open to adults aged 18 and older. No dance experience is required, and individuals of all bodies, abilities, and backgrounds are welcome. Participants may attend the full session or join for either the discussion or dance portion. Additional elements include journaling, reflection, and occasional “Share Nights” that celebrate personal growth and community connection.

Steps Forward is on Wednesdays from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM, Group connection begins at 3:00 PM. Dance begins at 4:00 PM. Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre is located at 219 Main Street, Hurleyville, NY 12747. For more information call 845-985-4722 or email: info@hpacny.org.

Community partners and businesses interested in supporting Steps Forward through sponsorship are encouraged to contact HPAC to learn more about opportunities to help expand this vital wellness initiative.