For the past 15 years, a familiar face — and plenty of familiar dance moves — have brought energy, music and smiles to Adult Recreation participants at The Arc of Essex County.

Jaquetta Perry, affectionately known by many Arc participants as “Zumba J,” has been leading Zumba sessions with The Arc for a decade and a half. And although the classes provide a fun way to get moving, Jaquetta says what has kept her coming back year after year is the connection she has with the people she’s teaching. “The Arc has truly become family over these 15 years,” she says.

A Speech Language Therapist as well as a licensed Zumba instructor, Jaquetta has spent her career working with individuals with diverse abilities, helping them communicate, connect and participate more fully in their communities. When the opportunity arose 15 years ago to combine that professional experience with her love of music, movement and fitness, it was a natural fit.

For Jaquetta, Zumba is about much more than exercise. The sessions encourage movement, communication, social interaction, following directions, confidence and self-expression, all in a fun setting. She adapts her classes so everyone can join in at their own level, emphasizing participation rather than perfect choreography. “It is never about getting every step perfect,” she says. “It is about being included, moving your body, enjoying the music, and feeling successful.”

Over the years, she has watched participants who were initially hesitant gradually come out of their shells, learn the routines, request favorite songs, and dance with growing confidence. She also enjoys seeing Arc staff members get in on the fun.

Some of her favorite moments happen before the music even starts. Jaquetta primarily visits The Arc during the summer months, so each new season brings a reunion. Even after months apart, participants remember her, greeting her by name and excitedly calling out, “Zumba J!” “It reminds me that what we have built goes beyond a Zumba class,” she says. “It is a genuine connection and relationship.”

And once the music begins, that connection is easy to see. “I love seeing the room change when the music comes on,” she says. “People light up! Everyone has an opportunity to move, laugh, express themselves, and simply be themselves.”

Jaquetta, who also partners with The Arc of Essex County through her Communi-Play classes for children ages 2.5 to 5, says the joy she receives from her Arc family is every bit as meaningful as what she hopes to bring to each class. “I may be the instructor, but over these 15 years, my Arc family has given me just as much joy as I hope I have given them,” she says. “That is what has kept me coming back year after year.”

And fortunately for everyone who looks forward to seeing “Zumba J,” she has no plans to stop dancing anytime soon. “I look forward to continuing to make wonderful memories together!”