Leighton Shiveley

7/6/18 3:30

The Riekes Center For Human Enhancement

Gary Riekes

Griekes@riekes.org

As my time at the Riekes Center continued my perspective grew on how this organization completely lived up to their stated values. Gary Riekes made it very clear from our initial meeting that his center was an inclusive environment with the core value being that each individual must be valued and respected. He continued by saying that each person is the only version of themselves that will ever be, and so therefore must be honored. I have come to realize that these inspiring and sincerely worded values are not just on paper, but are put into actions day in and day out by everyone who works there and attends as a member.

The diversity at Riekes is reflected in the people I’ve worked with there, ranging in age from ages 6 to 55. I am honored to say that I have created real relationships with all of them. Making true connections with these incredible people is the most satisfying part of it all. The goal of my sessions is to help others become more flexible, let go and just have fun moving, but the relationships I have made is what remains with me on the drive home. The Riekes Center has given me the ability to build a network with really good human beings – this is so heartwarming and uplifting to me that I could not be more grateful for the opportunity.

I originally wasn’t convinced that my stretch and dance sessions would make much of a difference to anyone, and feared that no one would really want to attend. However, at every visit I have ended up staying much longer than the planned two hours because of how many people come up and ask me to work with them. Hearing these words is so rewarding because it reassures me that I am making an impact on these people and that I am valued there. I feel as though I accomplished helping people with their individual goals while always respecting those I work with (and gaining a mutual respect in return) which are all part of this organization’s mission statement.