New Board Member, Shalida Dobbins

Posted March 30, 2026 in Press Releases

LEAP is proud to introduce Shalita Dobbins as one of our new board members. She is an activist and the Creative Arts & Community Manager for ME Action. Ms. Dobbins recently answered some questions so that we can get to know her better. Here are her answers.

• How did you initially hear about or get involved with LEAP?

I have known about LEAP for years but then I met Beth Glas and she recommended that I get involved.

• Why is it important for you to be a part of the board?

I want to be able to continue making the world equitable for people with disabilities.

• Is there a service that LEAP provides that especially interests you? Why?

I love that LEAP helps people transition into living independently. Independence is such an important part of life, and I think it’s wonderful that LEAP helps with that.

• Is there anything that has surprised you as you have learned about LEAP, the board, our staff, or our services?

I was happy to find out that most of the board members are other people with disabilities. It is important that decisions made for the disabled community come from those in the disabled community.

• What are you passionate about (personally or professionally)?

I love writing! I’ve been writing since I was eight. It’s a big part of my life. I’m happy to share what I love to do with so many people.

• What goals do you have moving forward as a member of the board?

I would love to be involved with brainstorming ideas for events and fundraising.

• What is something interesting that you would like to share about yourself for people to get to know you better?

I recently published my debut memoir” That Girl’s in a Wheelchair” I share a lot about my journey as a disabled Afro-Latina woman.