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.
What is DMI?

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.
How does DMI work?

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
Who can benefit from DMI?

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
Who provides the DMI therapy?

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.
How do I apply?

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!
Scholarship Guidelines

Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be a parent or guardian of a child with special needs who could benefit from DMI therapy.
- The child must be under 10 years of age.
- Priority will be given to families demonstrating financial need.
Application Requirements
- Completed application form, including basic family and child information.
- A brief essay (250–500 words) describing the child’s journey, therapy goals, and how DMI therapy will make a difference.
- A letter from the child’s therapist or healthcare provider recommending DMI therapy.
- 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.
- Only one scholarship per individual or family per year.
Award Details
- Scholarships will cover part or all of the cost of DMI intensive therapy sessions, depending on available funding.
- Funds will be paid directly to the therapy provider, Family First Therapy, INC.
- Recipients may reapply annually if they meet eligibility requirements.
- 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
- Applications will be reviewed and approved by FRIENDS Board of Directors.
- Decisions will be based on financial need, potential impact of DMI therapy, and the quality of the application materials.
- Applications will be accepted and considered without regard to sex, religion, ethnic background, race, or national origin.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: March 31, 2025
- Notification of Award: April 20, 2025