Nashville, Tenn. – Flip for Function, a local gymnastics and occupational therapy program, is addressing a critical shortage of recreational opportunities for children with disabilities. Founded in 2019 by Chasity Hagerty, the program combines adaptive gymnastics with therapeutic interventions, providing a space where children of all abilities can experience the benefits of movement.
Hagerty established Flip for Function after recognizing a significant gap in services available to children with disabilities. “A lot of times whenever kids come to us, most of the time they have come to us because they have either been—for a lack of a better word—kicked out of other programs or asked not to come back,” Hagerty explained to WSMV. The program distinguishes itself by prioritizing inclusivity and adaptability, tailoring exercises to each child’s unique needs rather than adhering to a standardized curriculum.
Flip for Function offers both occupational therapy services and adaptive gymnastics classes. This integrated approach aims to foster not only physical development but also confidence and a sense of belonging. Currently, the program serves over 100 students, with enrollment steadily increasing as summer approaches. The demand highlights the limited options available for children with disabilities seeking inclusive recreational activities.
For families like Michelle Lepkowski’s, the program has been transformative. Lepkowski, whose daughter Charlie travels over an hour and twenty minutes each week to attend, emphasized the program’s impact on her daughter’s self-esteem. “It’s built a lot of confidence in both of them and Charlie has struggled to find herself, and unfortunately, we live an hour and twenty minutes away from here, so we drive here every week because the opportunity for her to feel like just a typical kid but still get the things she needs—we just couldn’t pass that up,” Lepkowski said.
Hagerty’s journey to founding Flip for Function began with a passion for gymnastics coaching, starting at age 15. Even as pursuing degrees in journalism and marketing, she continued to coach, recognizing a deeper calling to serve her community. A pivotal moment came while working with a young girl with Down Syndrome, whose mother suggested exploring occupational therapy. Hagerty subsequently pursued a degree in Occupational Therapy at Belmont University, simultaneously developing the concept for Flip for Function. During her studies, she piloted an Adaptive Gymnastics Program in partnership with an Occupational Therapy clinic and a gymnastics gym in Northern California.
Looking ahead, Hagerty envisions expanding Flip for Function’s physical space to accommodate a growing number of students and provide continued support as they develop. “I really want to be in a much bigger space so that way we can serve so many more kids, but then that way also our current kids who are with us now, they can also grow along with us because we know there are so few options out there and we want to always kind of be there to support them,” Hagerty stated.