Testimonials
Our Classes and Events
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Tessa K.
I love how mindfulness, whether through yoga practice or improvisational theater, has vastly improved my life. I want that for everyone who wants it. Growing and expanding what is possible within myself and with one another makes me feel connected to my vitality.
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Kaitlyn Z.
Some strengths I see in Open Up are definitely the uniqueness of their classes and practices. I don’t think there are many places that offer yoga, improv, or music as a way to help navigate social settings as well as encourage movement.
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Rachel R.
I am truly in awe of the incredibly creative, supportive, and collaborative programming Open Up produces.
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Maria T.
I really enjoy the yoga with the symphony. I love that it’s an inclusive space.
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Emily O.
I love yoga and I love Open Up!
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Marissa G.
The programming orchestrated via Open Up aligns directly to social emotional framework by providing a foundation for safe and positive learning all while enhancing all students’ abilities to succeed in school, careers, and life.
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Annie L.
I wanted to get involved with Open Up because I believe in their approach to adaptive and accessible yoga practices.
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Dori O.
Open Up’s inclusive programming provides a sense of community for individuals from all walks of life in a creative, nurturing, and empowering manner. Their programs not only build a sense of community for the participants, but also have a powerful, positive effect on participants’ mental health, as oftentimes PWD can feel ostracized and/or relegated to “special” programs that take them OUT of the community.
Our Instructors and Staff
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Penny B.
Megan has a deep-seated understanding of the challenges of the special needs population. It is very moving to observe the multiple ways both verbal and nonverbal that she is able to convey support while creating an environment which invites calm and renewal.
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Danielle F.
A benefit of working with Open Up’s instructors is their ability to adapt classes based upon attendees’ needs which requires the ability to come with a plan but be ready to pivot at any time.
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Studio Member
I am most satisfied with the acceptance and patience of the facilitators and leader at Open Up.
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Ted K.
The community of people at Open Up are beyond welcoming.
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Baldwin Whitehall School District
April Jackson is great with my students and they love her!
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Claudia G.
Everyone is very patient, understanding, and friendly to one another and can help answer any questions one person might have.
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Rodney G.
The staff at Open Up brings their own unique personality to the party and I love that.
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Rodney G.
My favorite part about working with Open Up are the people. We have an engaging and welcoming staff and board. Their commitment to Open Up is inspiring.
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Claudia G.
My favorite part about working with Open Up is the staff. Everyone has always been so nice and positive since day one!
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Annie L.
My favorite part about working with Open Up is that it never feels like work at all. My time there is filled with laughter, joy, and community
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Rachel R.
Marissa’s process of developing mindful movement programming by collaborating with community-based affinity groups, such as young adults with autism spectrum disorder or seniors who are hard of hearing, has influenced my own methods in participatory action research.
Our Atmosphere
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Anthony C.
The kind and wholesome community that comes with Open up has been a very positive addition to me. I really enjoy meeting new people and teaching everyone.
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Ben Z.
A safe space that welcomes everyone to explore and express themselves. Open Up Pittsburgh creates the shortcut of a welcoming, actively calm spot that fits all abilities.
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Kaitlyn Z.
I think Open Up does a great job of promoting inclusiveness and has a great group of supporters around them with more opportunities to reach more people.
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Tessa K.
Open Up approaches community building by designing around the wants and needs of folks who may not feel comfortable in conventional spaces and this feels like a really special approach to building a connected and caring future for everyone.
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Natasha M.
Open Up is a truly inclusive and safe space for people of all different abilities. it’s a space where everyone is passionate about wellness for all people.
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Colton V.
Everything is awesome.
Our Impact
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April J.
I LOVE being so connected with people. The shared experiences with the community of people we work with is amazing.
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Ben Z.
We are not only the creation of sensory-friendly bubbles for unique talents but also the bond of other organizations
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Penny B.
Open Up is able to find ways to enable individuals to lead, to welcome people to the class, and to assume roles that match their comfort levels and abilities. It is inspiring to be working with them.
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Danielle F.
The partnership between Open Up and SLIP has created a community class for Deaf and hard of hearing older adults. Open Up’s studio provides a safe space for folks to come as they are despite their level of need.
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Jen E.
It started with just a few people and has grown quickly to include so many amazing people who bring their own unique perspectives to how to make the world more inclusive and accessible for everyone.
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Rachel R.
The work at Open Up is transformative for the individuals they serve, and I would love to see Open Up’s capacity continue to grow and expand. in particular, Open Up serves as a local model for creating safe spaces for children with and without disabilities to explore their interests and develop new skills in mindful movement and leadership.
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Dori O.
Emily’s life has dramatically improved and our family truly thanks Open Up Pittsburgh for helping that to happen and for lifting Emily out of her depression. Not only has Emily become a part of the yoga community and the overall Open Up community, but I, too, have made freidnsw ith other mothers and caregivers and I feel a part of the community, as well.