Telethon funding allows Para and Ability Dance Australia to bring movement and joy to kids with disabilities

Every week music, singing and laughter emanates from the Cannington Community Education Support Centre as students take part in dance lessons.

It is clear to see the joy the lessons bring to participants, but they are also doing much more — creating opportunities and engagement and promoting health and wellbeing in a safe, inclusive environment.

The students, who all live with disabilities, are taking part in a 10 week dance course with Para and Ability Dance Australia, made possible thanks to Telethon.

A Telethon grant has allowed the group to provide a term of lessons to 11 support centres and schools.

Chairman Darryl Davenport said the programs, which were tailored to meet the needs of students with disabilities, led to increased engagement, social interaction and physical participation.

“Having simple routines that they can physically express themselves to, with music, is very joyous for them,” he said.

“We really thank Telethon for the transformation they are making in the lives of kids in our programs.”

Two non-verbal students with autism had amazed their teachers by singing during the lessons, he said.

Students are taught dances such as the Nutbush and Macarena, which Mr Davenport said allowed them to participate at social events such as weddings and parties in the future.

In January Mr Davenport was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in recognition of his contribution to dance in Australia.

Para and Ability Dance Australia also supports competing para dancers such as dance teacher Lizz Bleakley, who lives with spina bifida.

The 26-year-old is a six-time Australian para dancing champion and said the sport had allowed her the freedom to dance without limits.

She and her partner recently qualified for the world championships to be held in Slovakia in November, and Ms Bleakley is fundraising to make the trip possible.

“Dancing has given me a new lease on life, boosting my confidence and fitness and proving what is possible with dedication and hard work,” she said.

“I enjoy every minute of being on the dance floor as I feel I can be anyone I want to be with no judgement.”