Youth leaders Christine, Ishmael, and Ivandre brought their individual passions for art, sports, and inclusion together to create the Play With Rhythm project. Their vision was simple: create an inclusive environment where everyone could participate in an activity that interested and excited them.

To bring that vision to life, the youth leaders organized three community events centered around different forms of expression and recreation: a dance recital and modeling show, football matches, and a bocce competition. Together, these activities created opportunities for participants to try something new, build confidence, and celebrate one another.
The project was inspired by the youth leaders' desire to collaborate with people with intellectual disabilities through art and sports. They wanted to create opportunities for everyone to express themselves, discover new interests, and come together as part of a large-scale community event.

Throughout the project, the youth leaders were supported by more than 45 partners, community organizations, vendors, and stakeholders. They specifically shared their appreciation for Ade's Place, the Special Olympics Committee, and everyone who contributed to making the project possible. Their support helped demonstrate the kind of inclusive community the youth leaders hope to continue building.
The project brought participants together through three main activities, each offering a different way to get involved and have fun.

The first component was a dance performance and modeling show. Through a series of rehearsals, participants learned the basics of modern and Afro-Caribbean dance, as well as catwalk, runway techniques, and posing. Rehearsals gave participants the opportunity to learn step-by-step, try new techniques, and build confidence in their abilities.

For Chrissy, one of her favorite memories was learning the dances and performing in front of an audience that enthusiastically supported the participants. The experience showed the youth leaders how trying new things, learning new skills, and encouraging one another can help everyone grow in confidence.

After weeks of preparation, the rehearsals culminated in a dance recital and modeling show, where loved ones and community members were invited to celebrate the participants and enjoy their performances.

The project's other two components brought the same spirit of inclusion to sports. Participants took part in football and bocce practices before coming together for competitions, creating additional opportunities to learn new skills, connect with others, and experience the excitement of being part of a team.
The impact of Play With Rhythm extended beyond the activities themselves. The event brought together participants, families, community members, and more than 45 partner organizations, creating a shared celebration of inclusion.

One parent's response particularly captured the project's impact. After dropping her son off for rehearsals, she initially did not understand exactly what the event was building toward. After seeing the final performances, however, everything came together. She was amazed by how seamlessly the event came together and by how many different pieces had worked together to create such a meaningful experience.

The youth leaders also see the relationships built through the project as an important part of its lasting impact. They plan to continue engaging with the many partners and community organizations involved in Play With Rhythm. What began as a collaborative project has grown into a network of relationships that they hope will continue to strengthen inclusion throughout their communities.
For the youth leaders, the project was also an opportunity to step outside of their comfort zones and learn from one another.

Ishmael shared how proud he was to be included in the project. Having never danced or modeled before, he appreciated the opportunity to try something completely new and experience the confidence that came with it.

Ivandre, who prefers football to dancing, found a different kind of joy in the project. While dancing was not his favorite activity, he loved watching and supporting the other participants. His biggest takeaway was simple: always support your friends, especially when they are being given the opportunity to be included.

Through Play With Rhythm, Christine, Ishmael, and Ivandre showed that inclusion can take many forms. Whether through dance, modeling, football, or bocce, everyone deserves the opportunity to participate, try something new, and feel celebrated.