For seniors in the Silver Sneakers fitness class at Bowling Green Parks and Recreation, the encouragement of their energetic leader keeps them coming to class every week.

More than five years ago, a special class for those 65 and older was created at Parks and Rec. to promote fitness for local seniors.

Thanks to Dawn Jones, who leads the class, the participants get more than just a good workout as they build friendships with one another and with their instructor.

Linda Chapman, who takes another class that Jones teaches, says, "Not only does she teach us here, but she also makes trips to the hospital, she goes to the funeral homes. She really relates to the people and she has a heart for the older folks in Bowling Green."

It is this extra effort that makes people feel like Jones cares about more than just their physical fitness.

"So we think of her as almost family," says Curtis Wilkins, who has attended the class since it began.

Jones provides a fun and senior-friendly workout to keep those progressed in age moving and shaking.

"Well in my time we would have called her a whipper-snapper. She has energy above energy, but she has a heart as big as she is," says Colleen Tinsley.

While these people may see Jones as a hero, she views those seniors who are dealing with the deaths of friends and loved ones, as well as other trials of aging and still manage to come to class as her personal heroes.

"They're just amazing people. Amazing. When I look at how I want to be when I am 65 and older... this is it," says Jones.

For caring for the bodies and souls of local seniors, we honor Dawn Jones as a Hometown Hero.