My Nonprofit Reviews

The work being done by the Shimmy Club provides opportunity to open the doors of inclusion for those with disability. And to share in the universal experience of music, dance, and the performing arts. One of the greatest challenges for a person with disability is overcoming stigma. Stigma is a superimposed perception that stems from a lack of knowledge or understanding of potential.

I happen to be blind and I can attest that stigma can cripple self-confidence, separate, cause isolation, stilt creativity, and can divide.

I am also a dancer, a musician, and an artist, and really understand the importance of the work being done at the Shimmy Club to help others find their way into a world that is hesitant to embrace those who might contend with disability. We all deserve to dance with confidence and self-respect to the music of our lives without fear or encumbered by shame.

As a Board Member, I cried at home the day I learned that despite blindness or disability, the Shimmy students would be making their debut by stepping out onto the dance floor to join in with the dance community. My belief that it is possible to melt away the pain of separation was about to be put to the test.

The evening was wonderful, magic, and it worked. Everyone was amazed. Now the Shimmy Club torch needs to be passed along so that others who may have to contend with disability can learn to stand up to the challenge of inclusion.

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