Youth leader, Wenqing, started the Dance Your Life: Inclusive Sport Dance project to provide children (ages 6-12) with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) opportunities to participate in sports, develop their confidence, and improve their physical and emotional health. Hosted at the Zaozhuang Special Education Center, the project offered a variety of adaptive sports and dance performance activities specially designed to meet participants where they were and celebrate their unique abilities. Participants engaged in obstacle-course training, recreational games, interactive cheerleading sessions, and sports-themed performances. Volunteers also showcased adaptive dance and gymnastics demonstrations, creating an environment where every child could participate, learn, and feel included.
Throughout the project, Wenqing drew inspiration and support from many individuals and organizations. The participants from the Zaozhuang Special Education Center served as the project’s greatest motivation, inspiring volunteers through their passion, determination, and willingness to try new challenges. Faculty members from the School of Physical Education at Zaozhuang University provided professional guidance on activity design and adaptive sports instruction. Teachers at the Zaozhuang Special Education Center also played a critical role by sharing insights into participants’ needs and helping coordinate program activities, ensuring the project’s success. She was also supported by not only mentors but fellow friends, collaborating with volunteers to plan and implement activities.
Wenqing implemented her project in collaboration with Zaozhuang University’s volunteer association, where she recruited and trained students for the program. A key component of the project was its individualized approach. Volunteers worked closely with special education teachers to design activities that accommodate different needs and abilities. For example, when some of the children were hesitant to engage in group sports, the team redesigned basketball activities into the “treasure hunt” format that better matched the participants’ comfort levels.

As a result, those who initially struggled to participate became increasingly engaged. Some learned simple cheerleading routines with their peers, while others confidently stepped onto a stage and performed before an audience for the first time. These moments reinforced a central lesson of the project: inclusion is not simply about participation, but about intentionally creating opportunities that honor everyone's strengths.

To ensure project sustainability, the final part of Wenqing’s initiative was to post on social media to spread awareness on a larger scale. She also established a long-term partnership between Zaozhuang University and the Zaozhuang Special Education center, creating a foundation for future collaboration and sustainable impact.
The project successfully provided the children at the Zaozhuang Special Education Center meaningful opportunities for physical activity and social interaction. Participants developed fundamental sports skills, increased their interest in physical activity, and demonstrated stronger teamwork and communication skills. The activities also contributed positively to their self-confidence. Volunteers also had meaningful growth opportunities where they strengthened their leadership, communication, and adaptive teaching skills while developing a deeper understanding of inclusion and advocacy.

Beyond individual participants, the project increased public awareness of how to promote inclusion at the local level. Community members gained greater exposure to inclusive programming, helping promote understanding, acceptance, and engagement. The collaboration between Zaozhuang University and the Zaozhuang Special Education Center also demonstrated how higher education institutions can positively change the community.
Reflecting on the experience, Wenqing recalls many memorable moments that highlighted the impact of the project. One particularly meaningful memory was watching a shy participant who initially resisted running activities gradually become an enthusiastic participant, joining competitions and celebrating with peers through smiles and high-fives. Another unforgettable moment was a volunteer-led dance performance that inspired excitement and active engagement from all participants.

The project also provided valuable lessons. Wenqing learned that strong communication is essential for successful collaboration. Whether coordinating with volunteers or working with teachers at the Special Education Center, timely and accurate communication was critical for ensuring smooth implementation and achieving project goals.