Clients and Friends

Last year’s winner of our national “be there” contest was Kelly Boyd. Her empowering story motivated all of us to think outside of the box and live life to the fullest by helping others. In her story, Kelly shared with us that it was her involvement in the Ms. Wheelchair program that was the stepping stone to her rewarding career in emergency management.

Today, Kelly is one of over 500 state titleholders who have participated in the Ms. Wheelchair America program in the last 20 years. In 1972, there were three contestants. Today there are 30 state titleholders who have won the ability to compete for this year’s crown August 14–20 in Erie, PA. Each contestant is selected for their accomplishments in advocacy, achievement, communication and presentation. The winner makes guest appearances across the U.S. promoting their platform.

If you take a moment and read each of the winners’ bios on their website, you’ll discover that the Ms. Wheelchair America pageant creates life-changing opportunities for its participants. Twenty years ago, Elaine Stefanowicz was crowned Ms. Wheelchair America. Her participation helped her win a full scholarship, and today she serves on the Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues & Employment and is an Educational Planner at Green River Community College in Auburn, WA.

Elaine and Kelly are just two of the hundreds of women who have participated in the Ms. Wheelchair America pageant whose passion has driven them to connect with what matters most. In honor of the Ms. Wheelchair America pageant and the passionate women who participate, MobilityWorks is proud to be the accessible vehicle sponsor for the 2018 pageant.

For over 36 years, the Dancing Wheels Company has captivated audiences with performances ranging from classical to cutting edge. Eclectic works from nationally renowned choreographers infuse their programs with remarkable diversity, innovation and energy. With an extensive repertoire and a variety of production options, Dancing Wheels provides powerful performances for its audiences.

If dance is an expression of the human spirit, then it is best expressed by people of all abilities. That is the fundamental belief behind the Dancing Wheels Company & School. Considered one of the premier arts and disabilities organizations in the U.S., Dancing Wheels is a professional, physically integrated dance company uniting the talents of dancers both with and without disabilities.

Mary Verdi-Fletcher, the first professional wheelchair dancer in the U.S., is the driving force and founder of the Dancing Wheels Company founded in 1980. Born with spina bifida, Mary wanted to offer others with disabilities full and equal access into the world of dance. An almost unimaginable concept at the time, Mary’s vision and passion have since helped to revolutionize our very notion of dance — as well as what defines a dancer.

Through weekly in-studio classes and community outreach programs, The School of Dancing Wheels uses movement and performance in a unique approach to education and artistic opportunities. Individuals who previously found limited access to the arts due to physical, sensory,
or developmental disabilities enjoy inclusive dance and participatory learning with their disabled and non-disabled peers.

The Dancing Wheels Company’s inspirational mission has touched over 5 million people globally through performances, school assemblies, residencies and workshops. Millions more have enjoyed their artistry via appearances on CNN, Good Morning America, and the TV special Christopher Reeve: A Celebration of Hope.

Mary hasn’t stopped dancing. She is an integral
part of every performance. Her passion is unwavering and an inspiration to us all.