ABOUT US

EVERYBODY BELONGS
ON THE DANCE FLOOR

How We Started

Founded in 2008 with a vision to make dance accessible to all. In 2010, we became a 501(c)(3) non-profit, allowing us to expand our reach and impact. Since then, we have provided dance classes to hundreds of individuals of all ages and mobility levels, creating opportunities for self-expression, connection, and empowerment.

Our Mission

Wheelchair Dancers Organization creates an inclusive dance community where people of all abilities can move, connect, and belong through accessible classes, diverse dance styles, and expansive performance opportunities. WDO’s outreach, education, and advocacy foster self‑confidence, creative expression, health, and well‑being through the transformative power of dance.

Our Vision

WDO envisions a world that celebrates the inherent value of EVERY body, reshapes perceptions of disability, and creates a future where dancers of all mobilities share the stage and thrive.

Our founder

Beverly Weurding was 55 years old when she was diagnosed with Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy. At a time when most people are looking toward retirement, Beverly was navigating life as a new wheelchair user. With encouragement from her physical therapist, she created Wheelchair Dancers Organization (WDO) to share her lifelong love of dance with others in the Disabled community. To date, WDO has changed the lives of hundreds of dancers of all ages and mobility levels.

BEVERLY WEURDING

board of Directors

Stephanie Nichols-Rodas
Board Director

Beverly Weurding
Treasurer

Dorothy Howard
Secretary

Michelle Huss
Interim Board Chair

Thuy Do
Member at Large

Jason Rivers
Member at Large

Adam Rickard
Member at Large

leadership team

Beverly Weurding
Founder

Dr. Rosalia Arellano
Executive Director

Steffi Carter
Dance Director, Marketing

Jen Fuentecilla
Donor Relations Specialist

Stephanie Nichols-Rodas
Community Outreach Specialist

Allison Abbott
Executive Assistant