MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Intensity Elite Dream Team- Linsey’s Cheer and Dance Center

BY JAMIE MCCABE

In the heart of Shelby Township, Michigan, there stands a vibrant and welcoming place called Linsey’s Cheer and Dance Center. It is a place where dreams take flight, and the spirit of inclusion thrives. The center, nestled on Central Industrial Drive, is a vision brought to life by a remarkable woman named Linsey, who dreamt of creating a specialneeds program within her studio.

Linsey’s Cheer and Dance Center houses the largest cheer gym in the state, including our renowned program, Intensity, Elite Cheer. They offer a diverse array of classes and private lessons in cheer, tumbling, and dance, catering to both recreational and competitive aspirations.

What truly sets Linsey’s Center apart is its unwavering commitment to supporting the Special Needs Community. Six years ago, Linsey decided to take the leap and introduce Special Needs Cheer and Special Needs Dance, ensuring that athletes of all abilities could feel included. The center’s specialneeds teams even participate in competitions and various performances, proving that nothing is impossible when determination and empathy joined forces.

Linsey’s Cheer and Dance Center is not just a place where dreams come true, but it is a safe haven, where every child with any type of disability feels valued and cherished.

To make this happen, Linsey’s program is led and facilitated by a special education teacher with over 23 years of expertise in the field, Lorri Zieleniewski. Lorri is not only the recreational Dance Teacher but also the coach for CheerAbilities and Dance Abilities, working hand in hand with Coach Danielle, who brings her experience as an early childhood developmentally delayed teacher and a seasoned dance and cheer instructor.

The story behind Linsey’s special-needs program is woven together through the passions and experiences of those involved. Lorri, who grew up in Warren, brought her unique perspective as both a special education teacher and a parent to a child diagnosed with autism. This blend of personal and professional knowledge allows the program to flourish, attracting volunteers called “buddies” from the cheer and dance program to foster friendships and assist in classes.

Linsey’s Cheer and Dance Center has become a beacon of hope for the Special Needs Community. Lorri’s unwavering advice to never give up resonates throughout the community, as she believes that every child, regardless of the severity of their disability, deserves the opportunity to belong and feel special.

Beyond its exceptional programs, Linsey’s Center also gives back to the community in numerous ways. Lorri, when not running the business, continues to teach various dance classes and share her knowledge and experiences by co-authoring a book and presenting at educational associations.

And so, in the heart of Shelby Township, Linsey’s Cheer and Dance Center stands tall, an emblem of inclusivity and compassion. It remains a testament to the power of dreams, driven by a passionate team and led by Lorri, whose love for specialneeds athletes and dancers is truly a blessing to all.

For more information about programs and enrollments, visit https/ linseyscheeranddance.com/