On Being a Grassroots nonprofit

As the founder of Walt’s Waltz. a grassroots nonprofit, my mission is driven by both compassion and raw honesty. Grassroots organizations, by nature, are built from the ground up—fueled by the passion of individuals who refuse to accept the status quo. They thrive on collective action, amplifying the voices of those too often unheard.
At their core, grassroots movements seek to create meaningful change by centering lived experiences and mobilizing communities. As Janet Mock said, "When marginalized people gain voice and center their own experiences, things begin changing." This is the power of grassroots advocacy. It’s about starting at the root of the issue, addressing the unseen causes, and rejecting a top-down approach in favor of one that empowers and unites.
Walt’s Waltz is not just an organization—it is a movement. Starting in our community, we work to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health, creating a foundation of education, advocacy, and safe spaces. But our vision extends beyond our own city. We believe that through collective action, this movement will spread, reaching communities everywhere and transforming the way mental health is understood and supported. True change begins when ordinary people come together to achieve extraordinary things. That is the heart of grassroots work. That is the heart of Walt’s Waltz.

We invite you to join us.