Easterseals and the Rollettes Come Together to Celebrate the Power of a Community in Motion

For the third year, Easterseals Southern California (ESSC) was a key 2026 sponsor of the Rolettes Experience, a global celebration of disability, dance and empowerment—bringing wheelchair users together to build confidence, community and a stronger sense of belonging through movement and connection.

Held annually in Burbank by the Rollettes dance team, the immersive, four-day program brings together wheelchair users and allies through dance workshops, performances, community-building activities and conversations that celebrate confidence, self-expression and connection.

During the event, ESSC participated in presentations and panel discussions, staffed an informational booth and sponsored the Dirty Soda & Popcorn Bar at Friday evening’s PJ Party—a fun opportunity for the Rollettes community to relax, connect, and celebrate together.

A Shared Commitment 

“You could feel the high energy as people from across the country came together,” said Kathleen Kolenda, VP of Adult Day Services and Employment Services at Easterseals Southern California, who spoke on a panel discussion about companies helping lead the way on access, inclusion and representation.

“The Rollettes are a dynamic community dedicated to empowering their members and advancing opportunities for people with disabilities to live their best lives,” Kolenda said. “Each year reinforces why it's so important for us to be here.

“We have the chance to connect directly with members of the disability community, learn from their lived experiences and introduce people to Easterseals,” she continued. “Together, we are helping to build a more inclusive future.”

Redefining Representation Through Dance

Seeking to build a community of like-minded people, The Rollettes dance team was founded by Chelsie Hill in 2012 after she returned to dance following a devastating car accident and spinal cord injury at age 17 that changed the course of her life. 

Her dream of becoming a professional dancer seemed unattainable—but she refused to give up. “The doctor told me, ‘You are not going to be able to walk,’” Hill recalls. “And my first response was, ‘Forget walking, I just want to dance.’ And that’s where it all started.”

Today, The Rollettes—who perform each year at ESSC’s annual Strides: Celebrating Disability Pride 5K Run/3K Family Fun Walk—provide a global community for wheelchair users through performances, awareness campaigns, dance classes, mentorship programs and the annual Rollettes Experience, now in its 14^th year.

The community now spans more than 20 countries, creating opportunities for people with disabilities to connect, build confidence and see what’s possible.

A Personal Connection

Brandy-Lee Beauvais, who recently joined ESSC as Government and Community Relations Specialist—working with leadership on community and advocacy initiatives protecting and advancing policies on disability—has a special connection to the event. Her sister, Amber, has been part of the community for the past seven years.

“The Rollettes Experience holds a special place in my heart,” said Beauvais, who attended this year for the first time. “This broader disability community that has become incredibly meaningful in my sister’s life. For me, seeing the impact of the event firsthand was inspiring and felt like a true full-circle moment.

“There is something powerful about being in a room filled with people who share similar experiences,” she continued. “It creates connection, belonging and the reminder that no one is alone. Inclusion matters, regardless of ability, and the Rollettes Experience is a beautiful example of what is possible when people are welcomed, celebrated and seen.”