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In 2008, the owners of Arts in Motion Dance Center, a for-profit performing arts studio, had a dream that was born out of their personal experience as the mother/brother of a special needs child. They began offering a free class for children and adults with special needs to give them the opportunity to participate in dance and the performing arts. The popularity of the class was overwhelming, and in the fall of 2010, Arms Wide Open became a non-profit organization.

Arms Wide Open (AWO) programs (dance, drama, singing, choreography and acting) provide individuals with special needs innovative specialized instruction that gives them the ability to express themselves, provides an outlet for emotions, encourages socialization and creates an inclusionary environment with other children without disabilities. Being active in the arts helps stop the stigma associated with special needs by providing tools to keep active and build a social network. Emotionally, the performing arts stimulate the "feel good" endorphins through the incorporation of music and self-expression.

Arms Wide Open provides a wide range of classes that foster creativity and provide social opportunities that help remove barriers to learning and other risk factors that may jeopardize these individuals’ chances for success. Classes are held six days a week and are open to special needs students within the age groups for each class. In addition to classes and workshops, AWO presents an annual recital showcase, community performances and a "Broadway" production that allows students to perform in front of a live audience, showcasing their talents, creativity and abilities. AWO holds auditions in the summer for ages 5 and up and begin rehearsing for the next 7-8 months preparing for this performance. The many hours of learning the choreography, the songs and the dialogue allow for creative expression, both individually and in a group setting, which in turn encourages exercise, promotes healthier living, and stimulates learning.

Arms Wide Open programs serve special needs students in elementary, middle, junior and high school as well as adults who would never have thought that fitness or exercise could be an important part of their lives. The focus of educational programs for people with special needs, especially adults, is primarily on teaching independent living skills, and many times their physical activity needs are never addressed.

Arms Wide Open serves more than 300 individuals with disabilities, from every cultural and socio-economic background. They live in a variety of settings, including group homes, foster homes, and with their families. They come to AWO from throughout San Diego County. Rehearsal schedules are adapted in order to meet the needs of people who live in far-reaching parts of the County.

Arms Wide Open does not deny services to any student based on their disability and instead, adapts classes to help all special needs students gain coordination skills improve balance, mobility, critical thinking, problem solving, innovation, concentration, focus, speech and facilitate creativity as they learn and participate in performing arts.

We at Arms Wide Open are dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with special needs or disabilities by fostering caring social environments and creating opportunities for recreation and participation in the performing arts.