United We Dance NWA started with an idea. In 2013 our founders: Joe, Hailey, Bill, and Barbara discussed the benefits of a free social event in the community that focused on inclusion. An event that could be held several times per year with no cost to the attendees. Our team recognized early on those individuals with developmental disabilities didn’t have a surplus of discretionary funds available and there was a lack of disability-inclusive events in Northwest Arkansas. We set out to remove the barrier, creating a safe and fun inclusive event. Each of our founding members brought unique talents to the group.

In April 2014 the idea became a reality, United We Dance NWA hosted its first-ever dance. Throughout our first year of dances, we all reflected on how amazing it would be to host a prom style inclusion event for people with disabilities. Six months later, in October 2014 we held our first-ever Fall Formal event. It was a fall-themed formal dance complete with a professional photographer, a banquet-style dinner, red carpet event, and decorations galore! We’ve continued to hold the Fall Formal annually.

In 2016, United We Dance NWA was blessed to have our friends at Saint Gabriel’s Anglican Church donate the funds necessary to obtain our 501c3 Non-profit status. Our non-profit has been beyond blessed to receive support from amazing companies and members of the community who have generously donated to sponsor our dances. These groups have made an impact and a world of difference in our community, one dance at a time. Our sponsors share our commitment to barrier-free friendships and connections. It is our goal to provide a monthly free dance where we can celebrate our abilities!