Real Stories
Debbie ~parent of Carson & little Dom
The Together We Dance Foundation has given children of all abilities — including those with autism — the opportunity to attend inclusive events where they can truly be themselves and feel accepted.
As a parent of children with autism, we often felt stared at, judged, and unwelcome. But through the Together We Dance Foundation, we’ve discovered acceptance, love, and a sense of family that we will cherish forever.
Mike Barnes, the founder of the foundation, is deeply committed to creating a wide range of free events for families. He goes above and beyond to find unique and meaningful experiences, and we’ve witnessed firsthand the joy and smiles these events bring to our family as well as the community.
In a short time, our boys have attended ice cream social, dances , Phillies game with meet and greet with Shane Victorino, Eagles practice with Big Dom, holiday outings and the newtown parade and Disney on Ice. The experiences has given our family and many others a chance at normalcy that is often hard in the special needs world.
We look forward to the upcoming year with The Together We Dance Foundation and help their mission with continuing to spread Inclusion and Autism Awareness.
Kristine Augaitis
I am writing to share my deepest gratitude and appreciation for the Together We Dance Foundation and the extraordinary impact it has had on my son, Jaxon Mamrol and our family.
As a parent of a child with special needs and autism, finding spaces where your child is not only accepted but genuinely celebrated can be incredibly rare. Together We Dance has created something truly magical — a place where inclusion is not just a word, but a lived experience for every child/adult who walks through their doors.
From the very first event we attended, Jaxon felt welcomed, valued, and safe. There was no pressure to be anything other than exactly who he is. The joy on his face when he dances, participates, and connects with others is something I will never forget. For him, these events are not just activities — they are moments where he feels like he belongs.
The foundation has given Jaxon confidence, happiness, and something he looks forward to with pure excitement. He talks about upcoming inclusion events for days in advance and counts down until he can be there again. Watching him light up in an environment built just for children like him has been one of the greatest gifts a parent could receive.
Together We Dance doesn’t just provide events — they provide connection, acceptance, friendship, and joy to children who often struggle to find those things in everyday settings. They create memories and opportunities that truly change lives.
Our family is forever grateful for the love, dedication, and heart this foundation pours into every child they serve. Together We Dance has made Jaxon feel seen, included, and incredibly happy — and for that, I can never thank them enough.
Kelly Peterson
I am excited to share how the Together We Dance Foundation has made such a positive impact on my son, Matthew. The foundation creates a safe and encouraging space where children like Matthew are celebrated for who they are. Matthew has developed friendships, participated in meaningful community activities, and gained confidence that carries over into other areas of his life. Seeing him feel included, capable, and proud of his accomplishments has been incredibly meaningful for our family.
The Together We Dance Foundation plays a vital role in our community by ensuring that children with special needs have access to enriching, inclusive activities that support their emotional and social development. Matthew’s experience is just one example of the positive difference this organization makes.
Thank you for your continued commitment to inclusion and for the life-changing impact you have on children like Matthew and our family.