At Special Steps, we are a dedicated team united by a shared passion for fostering inclusion, acceptance, and joy for all children. Our diverse group, made up of experienced dance instructors, enthusiastic volunteers, and compassionate advocates, works together to create a supportive environment where every child feels valued. Whether it’s through leading a dance class, mentoring our dancer helpers, or simply offering encouragement, each team member plays a vital role in bringing the heart of Special Steps to life.
Our mission goes beyond teaching dance; it’s about empowering children to embrace their unique abilities and helping them build confidence through movement and connection. We believe that every child, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, deserves the opportunity to express themselves, form meaningful friendships, and be part of something bigger. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that every child who participates in our programs has the chance to shine, grow, and experience the joy of inclusion.
Together, we make Special Steps a place where children of all abilities can thrive. Every Special Step we take is guided by our commitment to making a lasting impact, one that celebrates diversity and helps children and their dancer helpers realize their full potential. With each Special Step, we’re not just creating joyful memories, but building a community where acceptance and inclusion are at the forefront.
BrekLynn started dancing at the age of 3. She is currently 17 years old and a senior in high school. She created this organization to mix her love for dance and the community of special needs children. The reason behind her wanting to start this program is to show how loved and cared for these children are. After high school her plan is to go to college and get a degree in therapy so she can build Special Steps into a therapy program and dance studio.
Maddie Graham started dancing at the age of 9. She is currently 17 years old and is going into her senior year of high school. Maddie's goals include attending aesthetician school after graduation. She loves volunteering because it allows her to help out and give kids a positive experience. Maddie's favorite colors are light pink and light blue. In her free time, she enjoys riding horses and dancing. Her favorite food is definitely Reese’s peanut butter cups.
Paisli Pancheri started dancing at the age of 3 and took a break for about 3 years. She is currently 15 years old and is going into her sophomore year of high school. Her favorite color is pink! Paisli really enjoys volunteering because she loves to see the smiling faces of the kids. In addition to being a dancer, she also does nails. After high school, Paisli's goal is to go to cosmetology school. Her favorite food is mac and cheese.
Maddy Cantrell started dancing at the age of 10. She is currently 16 years old and is going to be a junior in high school. Some of her hobbies include painting, reading, and watching movies. Her favorite color is purple. Maddy loves volunteering because it gives her the opportunity to help others. After high school, her goals are to travel and pursue a career in the medical field. Her favorite food is homemade lasagna.
Kinley Klassen started dancing at the age of 3. She is currently 14 years old and is going into her sophomore year in high school. Some of her favorite hobbies include dancing and riding dirt bikes. Her favorite color is baby blue. Kinely loves volunteering because she gets to meet new kids every time and also see how awesome they are! After high school, she wants to go to esthetician school and become a dance teacher!!! Her favorite food is hamburgers!
If you would like to help run dance camps or are interested in reading, Darla & Belle Becoming Best Friends, at elementary schools, please visit my contact us page and send me an email or a message on any of my social media platforms. Even if you are not in Idaho, I would love to visit with you and talk about what it would like for you to become a Special Steps Ambassador.