Inclusive fun at Unified Dance allows opportunities for all

Inclusive fun at Unified Dance allows opportunities for all

Published on May 02, 2025

Lights twinkled, groovy disco music played and excited chatter filled the air as revelers from across Tarrant County partied the night away at the third annual sensory-friendly Unified Dance.

About the event: Fort Worth's Park & Recreation Department and the Fort Worth ISD joined to create a magical night for both general education and special education students on April 11 at Como Community Center. The youth - and their parents - enjoyed a deejay, dancing, pizza, yard games, face painting, laughter and pure happiness.

This year's disco-themed celebration brought out the sparkle in the more than 400 attendees - the largest crowd in the event's history.

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The goal: To make Fort Worth's recreation opportunities more inclusive and to meet the needs of all residents.

What they're saying: "More than just a dance, this prom is a space where everyone is seen, celebrated and embraced for exactly who they are," said Victoria Leach, a community center supervisor and one of the dance organizers. "It's about connection, friendship and making memories that last long after the music fades.

"We are so proud to continue building this tradition and can't wait to see how it grows in the years to come," Leach said.

Learn more about Fort Worth's Dream Club adapted recreation program.

Photos at top and below: The sensory-friendly dance provided a safe and fun environment for everyone where no one felt overwhelmed or overstimulated.

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