iDance -Thank you
Working with iDance has been so precious to us. I hope more people know it is available.
First, I would like to thank Mark Cavanaugh for giving us the opportunity to work with iDance and become part of the family there. From the very beginning, I have never felt so at home. I genuinely look forward to Sundays and being able to come play drums with everyone.
When we were invited to join for New Year’s, I was elated. With our children recently coming to the United States and all the financial and emotional adjustments that come with such a major life change, things have been challenging at times. However, showing up on Sundays and being around Karen Medina and the beautiful environment she has created, surrounded by some of the most amazing people I have ever met, has truly brought more happiness into my life.
Karen Medina has spent over 40 years in dance, but what she created through iDance became something much greater than a traditional studio. What began with one simple question — “Are there dance classes for people with developmental disabilities?” — eventually became iDance Adaptive Performing Arts and Fitness Center.
Karen often says it is not about trophies, but about the high-five, and you can feel that spirit the moment you walk through the doors. At iDance, people are not defined by limitations. Karen prefers the term “all abilities,” creating an inclusive environment where everyone is truly welcomed, supported, and encouraged to become the best performers they can be.
Over the years, iDance has continued to grow into something extraordinary. What started with adaptive dance expanded into fitness programs, drumming cardio, vocal performance, sign language performances, community involvement, and iConnect, a day program focused on life skills, volunteering, teamwork, creativity, and independence for adults with developmental disabilities.
One of the most inspiring things about Karen is that she never set out with some grand master plan. As needs appeared, she simply “stepped forward,” which has now become part of the heart and philosophy behind iDance.
Watching the joy, confidence, and connection created there has been deeply moving for our family. The energy inside iDance is real. It is love, acceptance, movement, expression, and community all working together.
If you would like to learn more about Karen Medina, iDance Adaptive Performing Arts and Fitness Center, or Inclusive Arts Ohio, please visit:
https://inclusiveartsohio.org/
Thank you again to Mark, Karen, and the entire iDance family for welcoming us with open arms. We are grateful to be part of something so meaningful.
— MamaDjo & The Djobi Family
