With a deep commitment to accessible ministry and inclusive evangelism, Melody Dillon launched the first-ever Wonderfully Made Dance Camp for IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) in Williamsburg, Virginia. Inspired by her passion for dance and her extensive experience working with children of all abilities, Dillon created a free, multi-day summer camp where faith, creativity, and belonging were joyfully embodied.
Held at her church from June 30 to July 3, the camp welcomed seven children on average each day, ranging in age from 6 to 18, with disabilities such as autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, and movement limitations. The program featured two daily dance sessions, a story-based devotional, crafts, snacks, and communal free time. Themes for each day included Creation, Animals, Relationships, and Myself, drawing from books like When God Made You and The Dancing Light.
The planning process was thorough and collaborative. Dillon worked closely with co-teachers Phoebe Jones and Cameron Estes via Zoom to design the curriculum and supply list. She also recruited additional adult volunteers—including a retired ER nurse and a former special education teacher—to ensure the safety and support of all participants.
From the outset, the program emphasized radical hospitality. One mother and daughter who previewed the space were moved to tears upon reading the affirmations on the walls: “You Belong” and “All Are Welcome.” For families affected by religious trauma, such small signals of acceptance held profound meaning.
Over the course of four days, the camp became a community. Children who were strangers on Day 1 became fast friends. Parents of children with complex needs connected and exchanged resources. One child, a non-verbal communicator, consistently lit up during “across the floor” dance time, finding expression and joy without needing words. Another camper, who struggled with social boundaries, was gently supported with new strategies for inclusion and respect.
By the final day, the program had not only strengthened participants’ self-esteem and social bonds but had also deepened Dillon’s own faith. She writes, “Every smile, every dance, every story read, and even every grunt and frown just reinforced the myriad of ways that God is reflected in every child.”
The camp’s success sparked plans for replication. Dillon and co-teacher Cameron Estes are already envisioning future camps in Williamsburg and Northern Virginia, with the goal of building long-term communities that celebrate all people as fearfully and wonderfully made.
