In Milwaukee, a group of women over 40 are finding joy and community through double Dutch. The 40+ Double Dutch Club, a nonprofit founded in Chicago, has expanded to Milwaukee, bringing women together for fitness, sisterhood, and fun.
A Community of Support
The Milwaukee subclub, led by captain and founder Angela Scott, meets every Wednesday at Abundant Faith Church of Integrity. The group starts with a stretch, followed by open play, including double Dutch, hula hooping, and rhythmic games. They also participate in African Hopscotch, jumping to the song ‘Double Dutch Bus’ by Frankie Smith.
For Scott, a breast cancer survivor, double Dutch has been a source of comfort and strength. ‘It’s a full-body workout, and I don’t like the gym, but I knew I needed something to keep my body moving and to keep cancer out of my body,’ she said.
A Sisterhood of Faith
The group’s mission is centered around friendship, fitness, fun, and fellowship, all guided by their Christian faith. ‘Part of the mission is friendship, fitness, fun, and fellowship,’ Scott said. ‘All of those things resonate with me and in my spirit because it’s a sisterhood that’s based on God’s direction.’
The women support each other in various ways, including promoting each other’s businesses and offering prayer and encouragement. ‘There are several of the ladies in our club that have businesses, and we’ll do anything to support them,’ Scott said.
Scott’s mother, Shirley Tomlinson, 76, is the oldest member of the subclub and has found a sense of family and support among the group. ‘I feel like my family has grown here, and that’s a very positive thing for a person my age,’ Tomlinson said.
Original reporting: Wisconsin Watch — read the source article.