Chair volleyball provides the perfect mix of fitness and fun for retiree Peggy Evans. This creative approach to traditional sports is one of several activities sponsored by “Stepping Out,” part of the Mercy Health Community Outreach Program that you support with your gift. 

“Stepping Out is a wonderful program,” says Peggy. “It encourages people to get out, socialize, exercise and have fun.” 

Peggy loves traveling, exercising and trying to stay healthy. She started attending Stepping Out activities in 2007 after retiring from a career in nursing. She found it was just the right fit for her. These days Peggy plays chair volleyball at least three times a week. She’s usually joined by eight to 12 other seniors.  

“I really enjoy it! We’ve been playing for the past year, so we’re pretty good,” she says. 

After the games, players often go out to eat or do other activities together. “We’ve met a lot of new people. It’s just wonderful,” says Peggy. 

Peggy was a nurse, so while her job was physically demanding, she didn’t take time for an exercise program. 

“I was on my feet, but I never really exercised,” she says. “When I retired, I started exercising, and now I really enjoy it.” 

“I’m grateful to the donors who support Stepping Out. The programs are free, and they are offered in different locations, with different hours, so they are available for anybody to go whenever they want.”