Breaking Barriers Through Movement

iCan Shine's mission is to provide quality learning opportunities in recreational activities for individuals with disabilities. Through their specialized programs—iCan Bike, iCan Dance, and iCan Swim—participants are empowered to challenge themselves to learn these activities in supportive, encouraging environments. This summer, Cook Children’s will host iCan Bike and iCan Dance in Fort Worth.

Research shows that over 80% of people with Autism and 90% of people with Down syndrome never learn to ride a two-wheel bicycle during their lifetime, yet approximately 80% of iCan Bike participants learn to ride a conventional two-wheel bicycle independently by the end of the five-day program.

Similarly, the iCan Dance program teaches participants complete dance routines that they perform for friends and family on the final day of camp—instilling confidence, joy, and a love for movement.

A Legacy of Success

Lexi Woolsey, 21, will be attending her fifth year at iCan Dance camp this summer. When asked what she loves most about the program, Lexi said, "Getting to spend time with friends, meet new people and learn dances."

Her mother, Kim Woolsey, has been a consistent champion of the program. "I'm impressed with the instructors,” she said. “These kids learn multiple dances in such a short amount of time.”

For many participants and their families, these camps offer more than just the opportunity to learn a new skill—they provide a sense of accomplishment and independence.

"She lights up. Dance is good therapy for her," Kim Woolsey said about Lexi.

Joselyn Arnold, 21, who has been friends with Lexi since they were three years old, has attended both iCan Bike and iCan Dance. Though she’s had great experiences at both, she particularly loves attending iCan Dance with Lexi. She shared her enthusiasm for the program by exclaiming, "I want to marry it!"

Both young women have found the camps to be places where they can express themselves, grow in confidence, and build their friendship.

"Every year that we go, I've seen progress in Joselyn," Brandy Arnold said. "The first year we went, I bawled like a baby because it was so cool to see various kids with disabilities being engaged in something that they love."

A Program for Everyone

The iCan Shine programs are designed to accommodate participants with a wide range of abilities and needs.

"It's for all levels of disabilities," Brandy Arnold emphasized. "It's for everyone, and that's what I think is so inspiring… they leave smiling and feeling confident about themselves."

When asked what she would say to encourage someone to join the iCan Dance Camp, Lexi Woolsey offered this advice: "I would tell them how much fun it is, you get to meet new friends, and don't worry. It's all about having fun."

Parents, who typically wait in a separate room throughout the duration of classes, also find reassurance in these programs’ structure. "We can hear how much fun they're having, so you know they're all well protected,” said Kim Woolsey. “I have absolutely no worries when I am there with her.”

Two Exciting Camps Coming to Fort Worth

This summer, Cook Children's will co-host the following iCan Shine camps in Fort Worth:

●     iCan Bike: June 2-6, 2025 at GameOn Sports Complex

●     iCan Dance: June 23-27, 2025 at Southwest Christian School

Both camps run for five consecutive days, with participants attending 75-minute sessions each day. The camps are designed for individuals ages eight and up, with each session accommodating a small group of participants to ensure everyone receives personalized attention.

Learn More and Register

For more information about the iCan Shine programs, visit their website at https://icanshine.org/.

To register for camp, visit:

• iCan Bike Fort Worth: https://icanshine.org/ican-bike-fort-worth-tx/
• iCan Dance Fort Worth: https://icanshine.org/ican-dance-fort-worth-tx/