Scholarships

F.R.I.E.N.D.S. West Florida is very proud to announce that we are now offering scholarships for DMI therapy, a service designed to make transformative care more accessible to our community.

This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to breaking down barriers and empowering individuals with innovative, life-changing therapeutic options.

DMI (Dynamic Movement Intervention) is a structured therapy approach that uses progressive exercises to stimulate neuroplasticity, encouraging the brain and body to develop new movement patterns. This method is particularly effective for children with conditions such as cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delays, and other neuromuscular disorders. By engaging children in purposeful and repetitive movements, DMI helps them build strength, coordination, and confidence in their abilities.

DMI therapy consists of a series of exercises that challenge a child’s ability to respond to gravity, build core stability, and improve postural control. These exercises may be performed on different surfaces, including therapy tables and mats, and incorporate DMI equipment to facilitate movement.

Therapists guide children through structured repetitive movements that progressively increase in complexity, aiming to:

  • Improve balance and coordination
  • Enhance postural control
  • Strengthen muscles necessary for walking and independent mobility
  • Promote new neural connections through repeated movement patterns
  • Encourage adaptive responses to various movement challenges

DMI is suitable for infants and children with a variety of motor challenges, including but not limited to:

  • Cerebral palsy
  • Down syndrome
  • Hypotonia (low muscle tone)
  • Developmental delays
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Genetic disorders affecting movement

At Family First Therapy, children and their families are empowered through personalized, evidence-based therapy services in a family-centered environment, helping each child achieve growth, independence, and a higher quality of life.

For over 10 years, Family First Therapy has proudly served children and families in our community, providing trusted, family-centered therapy services that promote growth, independence, and connection.

At Family First Therapy, they are ‘More than Therapy.’ They are a community of support, resilience, and empowerment. Whether it’s through their hands-on therapy sessions or their ‘You Can Do Hard Things’ mindset, they are here to help children and families overcome challenges and celebrate progress.

Before you apply, please take time to read over the Scholarship Guidelines in the section below.

 

  • A PDF of the scholarship application can be downloaded by clicking THIS link.
  • All documents must be mailed to the address shown on the application form or emailed to us here: a.odom@friendssupport.org
  • If you need any assistance or have any questions, please Contact Us!
Eligibility Criteria
  1. Applicants must be a parent or guardian of a child with special needs who could benefit from DMI therapy.
  2. The child must be under 10 years of age.
  3. Priority will be given to families demonstrating financial need.
Application Requirements
  1. Completed application form, including basic family and child information.
  2. A brief essay (250–500 words) describing the child’s journey, therapy goals, and how DMI therapy will make a difference.
  3. A letter from the child’s therapist or healthcare provider recommending DMI therapy.
  4. Must be active members of FRIENDS Down Syndrome Special Needs and have attended at least two FRIENDS programs/functions within the last calendar year to be considered.
  5. Only one scholarship per individual or family per year.
Award Details
  1. Scholarships will cover part or all of the cost of DMI intensive therapy sessions, depending on available funding.
  2. Funds will be paid directly to the therapy provider, Family First Therapy, INC.
  3. Recipients may reapply annually if they meet eligibility requirements.
  4. Recipients must maintain at least 95% attendance for the intensive therapy sessions. Failure to meet this requirement without a valid reason will result in ineligibility for future scholarship applications.
Selection Process
  1. Applications will be reviewed and approved by FRIENDS Board of Directors.
  2. Decisions will be based on financial need, potential impact of DMI therapy, and the quality of the application materials.
  3. Applications will be accepted and considered without regard to sex, religion, ethnic background, race, or national origin.

Meet The Inspiring Recipients

of the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. DMI Therapy Scholarships

Matthias

Matthias, a brave and determined 3 year old with Trisomy 21, is affectionately known as “Matthias the Warrior” for the incredible strength he’s shown since birth. After overcoming serious medical challenges, including a brain injury & pulmonary hypertension, he continues to make amazing strides.

Though currently non-verbal and non-mobile, Matthias can sit, scoot, pull to stand, and interact with his environment in meaningful ways. His family is hopeful that DMI therapy will support his journey toward greater independence—helping him walk, communicate, and thrive to his fullest potential.

2025

Emerson

Emerson is a determined and sweet 2 year old with CHAMP1, a rare genetic disorder affecting mobility, speech, and muscle tone.

After overcoming early challenges like bilateral clubfeet, surgeries, and hundreds of medical appointments, Emerson is now focused on reaching big milestones—like crawling and walking—so he can chase after his big brother and keep up with his growing family!

This DMI therapy intensive comes at the perfect time, as Emerson is stronger, more motivated, and ready to take the next big step toward independence.

2025

Eric

Eric is a vibrant & determined 16 month old with Trisomy 21 who has already made great progress in his motor skills. He can sit up and crawl, and now he’s working hard toward his next big milestone: walking!

With the support of DMI therapy, Eric will continue building strength, balance, and coordination to help him stand, walk, and explore his world with greater independence. His family is hopeful that this therapy will unlock even more of his potential and give him the confidence to reach new developmental milestones!

2025

Nathan

Nate is a joyful, bright 3 year old who loves music, cars, and the beach. While his interests are just like any child his age, he continues to face developmental delays that affect his independence and milestones.

He is still working toward walking fully on his own, but he is determined and progressing at his own pace. His journey has included the NICU, hospital stays, and many specialist visits, all faced with incredible resilience, joy, and love.

With DMI therapy, Nate will continue building strength, balance, and coordination to help him explore his world with greater independence. His family is hopeful it will help unlock even more of his potential and support him in reaching new milestones.

2026

Maddi

Maddi is a determined and energetic 1½ year old born with Down syndrome who brings joy to everyone she meets. She loves music, dancing, and playing her drums.

She began life in the NICU and has worked hard to build strength and overcome low muscle tone. She continues to show incredible determination as she grows.

With DMI therapy, Maddi will be supported as she works toward her next big milestone, walking! Her parents are excited (and a little nervous!) for the day she’s running all over the house.

2026

Gracelyn

Gracelyn is a strong and sweet 4 year old with Down syndrome. She has an extensive medical history with countless hospital admissions, procedures and surgeries including open heart.

Despite all she has been through, she continues to shine bright and faces each day with resilience and a smile.

Gracie has made slow but meaningful gains in her gross motor skills yet she still requires extra support in multiple areas. Her family believes this DMI intensive will make a significant difference in her life and help her continue reaching her full potential.

2026