Sarah Robichaud | Founder & CEO
Sarah is a classically trained dancer and choreographer who graduated from The Bolshoi Ballet in Moscow. Transitioning from dance, Sarah became a North American fitness expert on the CBS Early Morning Show and CBC's Steven and Chris. She is also a published health and fitness author. Sarah's passion for Dancing with Parkinson's ignited in 2007, when working as a personal trainer with Andy Barrie to help him find ways to physically help his body manage his PD through movement. Inspired by the Mark Morris Dance Group's innovative PD dance class, she immediately trained with them in NYC. Sarah was the first certified Canadian in the Dance for PD® Method and is a founding member of the Dance for PD® Network Canada. Sarah was recently awarded a community hero award by the Raptors foundation to recognize her work to keep seniors connected during COVID-19, and, in 2024, received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for the positive impacts DWP has made in communities across Canada. Click for more info
Lindsay Boyd | Director of Communications
Lindsay is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with a passion for health and wellness. She brings a wide-range of practical experience and extensive training in a variety of industries from green energy and sustainability, to healthcare and mindful movement. Actively involved in her community, Lindsay contributes her extra time and energy as pilates instructor and yoga teacher, volunteer with WWF-Canada, and as a board member with her kids school and with her ski club’s environmental stewardship committee. Lindsay is deeply moved and inspired by DWP’s vision of creating meaningful connection for seniors across Canada through movement and self-expression. Having followed DWP’s journey since its inception, Lindsay is honoured to now be joining the team during this very exciting and important period of expansion.
Jessica Dargo Caplan | Director of Outreach & Engagement
An arts professional with over 25 years experience in multidisciplinary programming, arts education, public engagement and collaborative partnerships, Jessica has a deep commitment to cultivating community through the arts. In her former roles with the Luminato Festival and Koffler Centre of the Arts, Jessica developed and led innovative projects grounded in social practice, including many in partnership with Dancing With Parkinson’s (most notably, the intergenerational L’Allegro Movement Project). Jessica currently serves on the Board of Directors with Henna Platform, and formerly volunteered as board member and chair of CultureLink Settlement and Community Services, and on advisory committees with the Regent Park Film Festival and WeeFestival.
Jennifer Desabrais | Executive Assistant
Jennifer brings many years of administrative experience across a wide range of organizations, where she’s known for her precision, discretion, and thoughtful communication. Joining Dancing with Parkinson’s marks an exciting new chapter in her career as she steps into the nonprofit world—supporting a mission that resonates deeply. With early dance training in Western Canada and the US and a lifelong appreciation for movement, Jennifer understands how dance can uplift the spirit, strengthen the body, and bring joy to everyday life. She is proud to support an organization that brings this joy to communities across Canada, from coast to coast to coast.
Lisa Eddis | Program Manager
Lisa Eddis is a performer, dancer, actor, and graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University, appearing in film, television, and stage production globally. Lisa’s talent for community building and artist development has made her an invaluable asset to the DWP team as the Project Manager and Coordinator. Having been a volunteer with Dancing with Parkinson’s since its launch in 2008, Lisa brings a great understanding of and compassion for the organization and the community of dancers. She is committed to helping DWP grow by supporting the participants, the staff and the educators. The vibrant DWP community is a constant source of inspiration in her work to maintain and strengthen communication, collaboration and connection within the DWP family of dancers.
Ann Marie Gaouette-Stevenson | Managing Director
With a deep commitment to socially responsible business practices, anti-oppressive principles, equity, and sustainability, Ann Marie has devoted her career to working and volunteering with both Canadian and international organizations that empower the development and success of vulnerable communities. As a champion for change, Ann Marie is dedicated to nurturing resilience and making a meaningful impact through innovation and operational excellence.
Ann Marie is thrilled to join the talented team at DWP. Their commitment to empowering lives and creating connected communities through compassion and empathy is truly inspiring.
Rachael Gibson | Director of Programs & Impact
With a background in professional dance, a PhD in political science, and over ten years of experience in research and evaluation focused on health promotion and health equity, Rachael brings a rare blend of skills that allows her to integrate different approaches and ways of seeing.
Rachael also brings a deep commitment to and knowledge of Dancing with Parkinson’s mission and work, having contributed in multiple ways since DWP launched its first class in 2008 -- as dance instructor, grant writer, intergenerational project coordinator, and, most recently, evaluation consultant.
Rachael is thrilled to continue her journey at DWP and incredibly grateful to work alongside such an inspiring and dedicated team.
Tina Kocic | Development Officer
With a deep passion for the arts, healthcare, and accessibility, Tina brings seasoned development experience spanning both non-profit and academic sectors. An artist in her own right, she places great value on artistic expression, connection, and wellbeing. She cares deeply about arts-based healthcare initiatives and is dedicated to ensuring that everyone has access to the care they need.
Tina is deeply honoured to be a part of DWP’s team and is very grateful to be surrounded by kind-hearted and hardworking colleagues who care so much about equity, accessibility, and arts-based wellness.
Jodi Lastman | Director of Giving Programs
Jodi has spent 20 years spreading the good word about remarkable organizations that improve lives. Working within non-profits and the agencies that serve them, she has built expertise in strategic partnerships, marketing and philanthropy.
Most recently, as Director of Marketing and Sponsorships at Park People, Jodi helped grow the organization into a national champion for city parks. There, she discovered her passion for work at the intersection of health and community.
She has served on the Steering Committee of Not Far From the Tree and is a writing facilitator with the Writers' Collective of Canada.
Jodi fell in love with dance at Pia Bowman's ballet school in a Thornhill church basement. At DWP's 15th anniversary celebration, she was so moved by the dancers she thought, "If I had a million dollars, I would give this organization a million dollars." Now, as Director of Giving Programs, she is delighted to build support for a joyful organization.
Tina is deeply honoured to be a part of DWP’s team and is very grateful to be surrounded by kind-hearted and hardworking colleagues who care so much about equity, accessibility, and arts-based wellness.