The Story

Carlos, who spearheaded innovative older adult programs and works as an adaptive recreation instructor, firmly believes everyone deserves access to movement regardless of age or ability. His grassroots work revealed how traditional fitness spaces often overlooked or excluded those with different mobility needs.

Emma, a movement professional, former PE teacher, and boxing coach, gained personal insight through her family members with special needs and work with students. She witnessed firsthand the gaps in movement programming for individuals with adaptive needs, fueling her passion to create more inclusive spaces.

Their paths converged around a shared vision: creating accessible movement opportunities that honor diverse bodies, abilities, and experiences. This grassroots approach began organically through authentic connection. These parallel experiences illuminated their unique position to address systemic inequities in wellness access related to movement and the outdoors. DONKS emerged as the non-profit extension of their mission—a dedicated vehicle to bring movement practices to underserved populations while partnering with facilities to implement effective, accessible programming that delivers measurable positive outcomes.

Today, Emma and Carlos continue to build their movement equity collective from the ground up, staying true to their grassroots beginnings while expanding their impact across communities.