"Making a Difference with The Wooden Floor in OC" with Dawn Reese

In this inspiring episode of the Orange County Power Players Podcast with Danny Flores, we sit down with Dawn Reese, CEO of The Wooden Floor, a nationally recognized nonprofit based in Santa Ana. Dawn shares how her dual background in for-profit and nonprofit leadership has fueled an incredible 16-year journey growing The Wooden Floor into a powerful force for youth transformation.

We explore how The Wooden Floor serves over 475 children annually through a 10-year commitment starting in the 3rd grade—combining dance, academics, college prep, and family services to ensure students reach their full potential. Dawn opens up about the organization’s unique strategy, incredible outcomes (including a 100% college enrollment rate), and how they’ve impacted over 100,000 children since 1983.

She also talks about how the nonprofit is scaling impact through a new initiative—Dance Uplifts—reaching even more students in local school districts, and their upcoming annual concert at the Irvine Barclay Theatre.

Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, an education advocate, or just love stories of transformation, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Orange County Power Players" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Here’s why you should consider joining host Danny Flores on our next episode: Ready to Share Your Story? Click below to fill out a short questionnaire and book your interview time. We can’t wait to spotlight your journey! https://ocpowerplayers.com/guest