News

Shoppers at Devonshire Mall, located in Windsor, Ontario, were surprised and delighted on Friday, June 6 by a lively, joyful flash mob led by VON’S SMART (Seniors Maintaining Active Roles Together) program.

The event brought together over 50 SMART participants, instructors, families, and onlookers who moved and grooved in unison to Jelly Roll’s song “Run It”, highlighting the power of community, movement, and aging well.

 “This has been a dream of mine to do for about 10 years,” said Khrista Boon, VON’s SMART Program Director. “The flash mob was months in the making. SMART participants across the region learned a choreographed routine, with both standing and seated versions offered to keep the activity inclusive. They practiced in community spaces and retirement homes, with extra sessions after class and instructional videos shared on Facebook for at-home learning.”

Thanks to a PA day, grandchildren joined their grandparents on the mall floor, creating a heartwarming intergenerational moment. Families gathered to cheer, phones in hand, capturing every joyful beat.

What started as an inquiry with Devonshire Mall turned into an exciting partnership. The mall’s team not only supported the flash mob but also proposed a free SMART exercise class on the first Friday of every month, open to anyone in the community.

The June 6 flash mob launched this initiative, aligning perfectly with the start of Seniors Month and this year’s theme, ‘Fit, Active and Healthy Seniors’, in Ontario.  After the morning fitness session, participants took over the mall’s main floor with confidence, energy, and cowboy hats.

Khrista emphasized the importance of making the event participant-led. “They really took ownership of this routine. The sense of accomplishment was spectacular,” she said. “You could just see them, kind of relieved, but at the same time, like, ‘We did it!’”

More than movement: A path to better health

The SMART program offers more than just physical activity. It fosters community, support, and measurable health improvements.

“This was a powerful way to challenge age stereotypes, not just for our SMART participants, but for the entire community. You're seeing vibrant people moving and grooving, celebrating life,” said Khrista.

Khrista regularly hears from participants who feel stronger, more independent, and more confident since joining. “People tell us they feel more confident after a fall. Doctors see improvement in chronic conditions. Others say, ‘I didn’t know I could still do this.’”

Through “Mobility Matters” checkups, participants are assessed on balance, strength, and mobility. These regular check-ins reveal real progress, often after just a few months of consistent participation. Sharing those results with participants and their families has led to increased attendance and helps to set achievable goals.

 “Seeing my improved results put my mind at ease, considering the surgeries and health challenges over the last year that reduced my normal activities and greatly affected my balance. I attribute my current flexibility and mobility to the SMART program,” said SMART participant, Dennis.

 “We’re building a community of fitness friends,” Khrista said. “Exercise is medicine, and so is coming together as a community to celebrate aging well.”

Get involved

Whether you’re interested in participating or volunteering, VON’s SMART programs welcome new faces. Free training is available for volunteers who want to help facilitate classes, and new clients can register to be matched with the appropriate level of support. Visit von.ca/smart to learn more and find a program in your area.

Looking to watch the flash mob in action? Visit  VON SMART Exercise Windsor-Essex’s Facebook page to watch the video.