Cheerleaders Find Destiny
Destiny is a cheerleading squad for special needs children.
Oct. 1, 2007 — -- Destiny's cheerleading squad is like many others. The young girls, who range in age from 8 to 14, cheer loudly in their blue and white uniforms, showing their spirit by egging on crowds.
But, unlike most troupes, Destiny consists of girls with special needs, like Down's syndrome and autism. For the girls, the squad, which is based in Maryland, presents an opportunity to do something they might not get a chance to otherwise.
They get to run, cheer and jump, as they build a team.
"It's really amazing that I go out there and cheer and get a lot of medals and trophies," said cheerleader Marissa Mellentz.
The group travels and performs at exhibitions like any other cheerleading troupe. And for many, participating in the squad has been life changing.
"It's really built their self-confidence and their self-esteem and taught them the value of teamwork and compassion for each other," said Laura Thomas, whose 14-year-old daughter Chloe is on the squad. "After one or two practices, you see different kids. It's been amazing."
In addition to helping Chloe become more energetic and physically active, Thomas said the troupe has helped her daughter emotionally.
"She's more outgoing, more compassionate," she said today on "Good Morning America." "She's the caretaker on the team. She's giving the kisses to the boo-boos. She thinks she's the head cheerleader."
Programs like Destiny represent a shift in culture. While many public schools have educational programs for special needs children, only recently have more afterschool programs been dedicated to the students.
In fact, now 160 gyms in 34 states cater to special needs children. Many see it as a breakthrough.
"Everybody cheers with them. Everybody stands up for them. They get standing ovations because they're like that. They're really good," said Tatiana Lewis, a friend of the cheerleaders.
Destiny's positive energy is a departure from the sometimes critical and hurtful ridicules disabled children often receive.
Related Stories
ABC News Live