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Dear DWP Community,
How is it October already?! Time really does fly when you are having fun, especially when you spend so much of it dancing!
October invites us to pause and give thanks. And when I look back at the month behind us, what I feel most is enormous gratitude for this ever-growing community.
September was one incredible gathering after another with some of our favourite partners across the country. We danced with the crowds at Parkinson Canada SuperWalks from coast to coast, grooved and cheered on our friends at the Spinning Wheels finale, and experienced a beautiful afternoon of collective effervescence at our public dance class at the SLOW installation on Festival Street during TIFF.
Everywhere we danced, we saw proof of something we know deeply but perhaps do not say loudly enough: this work is not a “nice to have.” It is an essential part of living well.
Dance is a powerful, evidence-based health intervention with real benefits for people living with Parkinson’s and seniors across Canada. We see it in every dancer moving with greater confidence, every face lighting up when the music begins, and every care partner joining in and experiencing the magic for themselves.
Movement is good medicine. But so are music, community, creativity, laughter, art and joy. The evidence is not only in the research. It is right there in the room, in every class, every single day.
In just a few weeks, we will be attending Parkinson Canada’s PDIQ + You conference in Moncton, New Brunswick, helping to kick off the launch of our newest East Coast classes! To our New Brunswick partners who are spreading the word and building this community before the music has even started, thank you for believing in this work. We cannot wait to welcome you to the dance floor!
At the heart of DWP is another circle of care that never stops showing up: the families, friends, support workers and loved ones who help our dancers get to class, carry so much with love, and continue to encourage others while managing very full lives of their own. Care partners are our unsung champions. What you do, quietly and consistently, is no small thing. It is love in action.
So this October, from the bottom of our very full hearts, thank you. To our dancers, care partners, instructors, volunteers, donors, partners and friends, past, present and future: you make all of this possible.
All of us at DWP are so grateful for everything we have created together, and incredibly excited about what's still to come.
With enormous gratitude,
Sarah Robichaud
Founder & CEO
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From Festival Street to the Red Carpet: DWP Takes TIFF!
On September 11, Dancing with Parkinson's transformed Festival Street at TIFF into one joyful, fully accessible dance floor. Surrounded by Naomi Jaye's beautiful SLOW installation and celebrating the Toronto premiere of Onwards and Sideways, we welcomed the film's writer and star, Paul Mayhew-Archer, and producer Hilary Bevan Jones to dance alongside our community. Dr. Jordan Antflick from the Ontario Brain Institute led a powerful conversation about why the arts are not simply enriching, but essential to brain health.
People living with Parkinson's, seniors, care partners, artists and passersby of all ages, bodies and abilities moved together in one of Toronto's biggest cultural spaces. It was a beautiful example of what happens when the arts are open to everyone, not just as spectators, but as artists.
There is strong science behind this work. We know that movement, music, creativity and connection support our physical, cognitive and emotional health. But there's also something harder to measure: the moment someone feels seen, included and fully part of something bigger. And the power of joy cannot be overstated!
Thank you to TIFF for helping us show what true accessibility and inclusion in the arts can look and feel like. And thank you to every dancer, care partner, artist, teacher and volunteer who filled Festival Street with movement, connection and joy. This is why we dance.
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Congratulations to DWP's Ottawa Team: Health Is a Community Affair Award Winners!
We are delighted to congratulate DWP's Ottawa-based teaching team on receiving the "Health is a Community Affair Award" from the Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre!
Nancy, Elysse, and Kathleen lead our in-person classes in the capital region. They're being recognized for the impact our classes have had within the Centre's Multicultural Seniors Program, a partnership we truly value.
We're endlessly grateful to Nancy for accepting the award on behalf of the teams' heartfelt work; we are honoured to work with you! Thank you to Ziba Golbari at Pinecrest for recognizing the love, care, and compassion of DWP's Ottawa team and highlighting the impact in your community!
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The Heart of DWP: Our Teaching Artists
Last month, our national team of teaching artists came together for an afternoon of professional development, sharing best practices and exploring new ways to serve our dancers even better. The skill and calibre of this team is exceptional. Each instructor brings expertise, passion, commitment, and care to every class, and they never stop striving to learn and grow. We are so grateful for everything they do, and proud to dance alongside them.
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Partnership is at the heart of Dancing with Parkinson’s. By joining forces with like-minded organizations that support people living with Parkinson’s and seniors, we are able to extend our reach and deepen our impact. It is an honour to work alongside so many incredible partners and leaders in the field, and to celebrate our shared commitment to the communities we serve.
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Thank You for SuperDancing With Us!
This September, Dancing with Parkinson's led warm-ups at Parkinson Canada's 2026 SuperWalk across the country! It was more than a walk — it was a celebration of hope, determination, and connection, bringing people together in support of Parkinson Canada's important work raising funds and awareness for Parkinson's disease — the fastest-growing neurological condition in the world.
Movement matters for people living with PD, and whether you're dancing or walking, we need to keep moving together.
We're proud to partner with Parkinson Canada and to stand alongside the more than 120,000 Canadians living with Parkinson's disease, along with their families and care partners.
Thank you to everyone who joined us to SuperDance before you SuperWalked! To relive the moments, click the button below to watch us dance at the 2026 SuperWalks.
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Celebrating Spinning Wheels Right to the Finish!
This year, the Spinning Wheels crew once again pedalled thousands of kilometres across the country, stopping in dozens of towns along the way to put Parkinson's disease on the map. It was more than a ride — it was a celebration of resilience, hope, and connection, bringing communities together to support critical PD programs nationwide that are a lifeline to many, including Dancing with Parkinson's!
We're continually inspired by this incredible team and their relentless commitment to showing what movement and community can do for people affected by Parkinson's. We were thrilled to help celebrate their accomplishment at the grand finale at the Mimico Cruising Club in the best way we know how: by dancing! The day was made complete by celebrating with Lloyd, Jim, Mike and the entire Spinning Wheels community, including Martha Johnson and Mark Gane of the legendary band Martha and the Muffins, best known for their hit "Echo Beach."
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One Last Dance With Parkinson Canada's Swagger Finder!
We couldn't stop smiling this September, spotting "Find Your Swagger" posters everywhere we went! Parkinson Canada's campaign has taken over, and Dancing with Parkinson's has loved being a part of it, in partnership with Parkinson Canada and Spotify! Seeing dancers from our very own Mississauga class grooving on the "Swagger Slider" has been such a special bonus!
Don't wait too long to get your swagger on — the Swagger Finder disappears for good on October 12th! Click the button below to try it, and while you're there, follow Dancing with Parkinson's on Spotify.
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The Power of Connection: Celebrating GenWell Weekend at DWP
On September 18th, the DWP community came together on the Daily Dance Connect to recognize GenWell Weekend, to remember that at DWP, we are never alone.
Movement has a special way of bringing us together, and the benefits of dance truly are endless — physically, it builds strength, balance, and flexibility; emotionally, it lifts our mood and helps us feel seen and connected; and cognitively, it sharpens focus, memory, and coordination. But perhaps the greatest benefit of all is simply this: you've always got a friend at DWP!
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We are thrilled to welcome two new team members to the DWP family! Dr. Rachael Gibson and Jodi Lastman are joining us to deepen our impact and ensure the sustainability of our programming. Their knowledge, expertise, and passion will help us bring the joy and benefits of dance to even more people, far and wide.
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Dr. 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.
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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.
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The Countdown Is On: Join Us to Dance in New Brunswick!
The launch of our new in-person classes in New Brunswick is right around the corner with community classes taking place in Moncton, Saint John, and Fredericton at the end of October! If you're in the area, or know someone living with Parkinson's who is, please share this news. We can't wait to dance with you all!
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Three opportunities to dance with DWP in person, for free, in New Brunswick!
Moncton:
Date: Monday, October 26th
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Location: Holy Family Catholic Church, 52 Falkland Street, Moncton
Click here to RSVP
Fredericton:
Date: Wednesday, October 28th
Time: 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Location: Gibson Memorial United Church, 183 Gibson Street, Fredericton
Click here to RSVP
Saint John:
Date: Thursday, October 29th
Time: TBD
Location: First City School of Dance, Place 400, 400 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Suite 2046, Saint John
Click here to RSVP
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Can You Help the DWP Team Get to New Brunswick?
Bringing DWP's transformative program to a new province means flights, travel, and dance shoes on the ground: instructors to train, volunteers to support, and communities to welcome into our classes for the very first time. That's where you come in. Through the Aeroplan Member Donation Program, you can turn your unused points into real, meaningful impact — helping us get our team where they need to be to launch this program and bring the joy and benefits of dance to people living with Parkinson's in New Brunswick.
With your help, we can continue to spread the research-backed benefits of dance to communities that currently lack essential programs like Dancing with Parkinson's. Click the button below to learn more and get started!
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West Coast Dancers, This One's For You!
We love seeing everyone from across the country and beyond on the Daily Dance Connect, but we know it is an early start for our friends who log in from west coast. So we are thrilled to announce a new 30-minute, seated, online class on Pacific time, launching November 2nd!
These Zoom classes will be brought to you by two familiar faces: Lesley Telford who leads our in-person classes in Vancouver, and Kayla Patullo-Liao who often teaches the Daily Dance Connect, in addition to running our tech workshops and coordinates our "Slice of Life" presentations.
BC Online Classes:
When: Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m. PT with Lesley and Thursdays at 2:30 p.m. PT with Kayla
Location: on Zoom. Stay tuned for registration info which will be shared shortly!
We can't wait to dance with you!
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We are Hiring Dance Instructors in Fredericton, Moncton and Penticton!
At Dancing with Parkinson's, our instructors share their artistry to help people living with PD, seniors, care partners, and community members move with greater confidence, independence, creativity, and joy. They are the heartbeat of the DWP family — we couldn't do this without them!
If you, or someone you know in the New Brunswick or Okanagan Valley areas is a professional dancer looking for a truly meaningful opportunity, DWP is it! We offer training in our nationally recognized, science-backed teaching methodology which was developed over nearly 20 years, and is continually informed by research and participant feedback.
We offer competitive compensation, paid specialized training, ongoing mentorship, and the chance to become part of a passionate national team of artists changing lives through dance.
Many of our instructors tell us this is the most rewarding work of their careers. If this is you, or you know someone who might be interested, please share this information, and apply today by sending your resume and a brief cover letter to info@dancingwithparkinsons.com.
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Join Our Hybrid-DDC Program Team!
Love music, movement and community? Dancing with Parkinson's is looking for Facilitators in Toronto to help share our online dance class with participants communal settings.
In this part-time, paid role, you will attend a regular weekly class at one of our partner locations, set up and manage the online class technology, welcome and support participants, and help create a safe, joyful environment for everyone.
Commitment: About 1.5 hours per week at a regular Toronto location
Training: Provided by DWP
We're looking for people who are warm, reliable, comfortable with technology and enjoy working with older adults.
Interested? Send a short note about yourself to info@dancingwithparkinsons.com. We look forward to hearing from you!
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Special Discount on DWP Merchandise!
We're so grateful to everyone who has already ordered their DWP merch! Thank you for helping us spread the word about this program that moves you.
Here's a special promo code to apply to your next purchase: DWP-TENOFF
Already bought yours? No problem! We're happy to apply the discount retroactively — just send us an email at info@dancingwithparkinsons.com and we'll take care of it for you.
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From coast to coast, dancers are experiencing the joy and benefits of moving together to music with Dancing with Parkinson’s. Our aim is to make our programs accessible, inclusive, and to meet you where you are.
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The Word is Out in Thornhill!
Our Thornhill class is growing! Four new dancers joined us one Tuesday in September, and the room was buzzing. Seeing DWP's program helping people live well reminds us why it matters to reach as many dancers as we can.
To feel the energy in the room, click here.
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Thorncliffe Park Gets Their Groove On!
It's always a good day for dancing, and the incredible community at Thorncliffe Park knows it! Every week, whether joining the Daily Dance Connect remotely, or with an in-person instructor, they make the most of their time together.
To experience the magic for yourself, click here.
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Uki Festival Vibes at Grenadier!
The Ukrainian Festival on Bloor Street West rippled into class at Grenadier Retirement Residence last month, and the vibe was contagious! The dancing had already started before DWP arrived and carried on throughout class, complete with Ukrainian music.
Get into the vibe by clicking here.
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Welcoming Fall in Charlottetown!
Every season, our Charlottetown dance family creates a "Season's Change" dance, and this fall's was a powerful reminder that as the world turns, we keep moving together. We are so grateful to our instructor Julia Sauve, whose passion for dance is like a warm hug for all who join the class!
Click here to be moved.
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Orange Shirts in Remembrance
On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we wore orange in recognition of the children who never came home, the Survivors of residential schools, and the original inhabitants of the land on which we dance.
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310 Dundas Brought the Swagger!
Our dancers at 310 Dundas, a Toronto Seniors Housing building where we offer hybrid classes, had a blast with the Parkinson Canada x DWP x Spotify Swagger Finder, building a class playlist that was made to move to!
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Thank you for your Feedback!
We are very grateful to everyone who took part in our recent program surveys. Your input is invaluable in informing our programming so that we are providing you with the very best that we can offer, ensuring that you get the most out of your time with Dancing with Parkinson's.
We can't wait to share the results with you very soon!
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Experiencing a DWP class firsthand is the best way to understand its impact, so in addition to our regular 50+ weekly in-person and online classes, we are always on the go offering demonstrations, presentations and webinars. Here is where we shared the magic this past month!
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Sharing Movement, Joy, and Connection...
In September, DWP led demonstration classes at Cummer Lodge, PC Support Group, 16 Concorde Place, Liberty Place, Walk to Wellness in Meaford (see below), the Alliance for Healthier Communities Professional Learning Event (more below on this too!), as well as at 100 Cavell Avenue, as seen here with DWP instructor, Robin McPhail-Dempsey! We are so grateful for the opportunity to share how music and movement can improve physical, cognitive and emotional wellbeing. Thank you for welcoming us!
In October, we look forward to dancing with new friends at many locations across the GTA and beyond!
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Strolling and Rolling to Wellness!
On Friday, September 18th, about 200 people came together for the Meaford Long Term Care Walk to Wellness, led by a very special guest celebrating her 100th birthday from the front of the route! DWP was delighted to join the festivities with a fun and uplifting demo class led by our remarkable instructor Louise Stewart Potts.
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Alliance for Healthier Communities
On September 23rd, DWP led a demo class at the Alliance for Healthier Communities' Social Prescribing event in Toronto, connecting with partners who share our belief that connection, creativity and community are powerful medicine. We are excited to be part of helping more people find their way to the dance floor!
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DWP is passionate about introducing our fun and beneficial program to new dancers by offering free demo classes, presentations and webinars!
For more information about booking one for your group, please email us at info@dancingwithparkinsons.com.
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“Being in this class with these people and the wonderful spirit that’s created — that’s one of the things that brings me joy more than anything else.”
~ Julia, dancer in DWP's Ottawa class
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Calling All Volunteers!
Volunteers play a vital role in creating a welcoming, safe, and supportive space where dancers can feel comfortable to move and express themselves. This is meaningful, heart-led work — an opportunity to give back to a beautiful community through art, connection, and self-expression.
Join us and be part of something that truly makes a difference in the lives of others! Click the button below to learn more about the various volunteer oppportunies available with DWP.
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Are you Following Us on LinkedIn Yet?
DWP has moved on LinkedIn! If you have been following our previous page, please make the switch so you stay connected and don't miss any of our updates, stories, and announcements. Click the button below!
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Dance with Us Anytime, from Anywhere!
Did you know that DWP has a YouTube channel with Daily Dance Connect classes? So you can log in from wherever you are, whenever you like to dance! Watch this space as we'll be adding new DDC videos over the course of the year.
To enjoy music from DWP's online classes, listen "live" here!
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Why Does DWP Matter?
Every day, people tell us how our research-backed programs bring joy, friendship and connection to their lives, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Click below to make a donation to help keep our programs free of charge for all who wish to participate.
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