IMAGINE that you are a child confined inside your classroom, strapped into a wheelchair while your classmates play outside during recess. They have not invited you to join them because you cannot navigate your wheelchair through the playground. You are being denied the basic freedoms of childhood, and your peers may even tease you because you are "different."

Sadly, the school district has identified more than 15,000 children with disabilities right here in Charlotte, North Carolina, that endure these heart-breaking obstacles in their daily lives.

NOW envision that you are a child with mental retardation who has just learned how to count by participating in a movement education class with kids your own age. Another child, your friend who has leg braces, is learning to trust his body and express himself through movement in your class.

Can this really happen? The answer is YES!

With the help of valued donors and friends, we are proud to announce that Allegro Foundation is transforming the lives of more than 480 children with disabilities in our community each year. 15,000 children with disabilities in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg school district are waiting to receive Allegro's vital intervention, but we need your financial support and the donation of your time and talents to teach them!

Last Updated: February 2, 2010

Allegro Foundation...a Champion for Children with Disabilities, laurent@allegrofoundation.net, 704-412-5229