Community Rallies Behind 'We Rock The Spectrum' Kid's Gym

AGOURA HILLS, CA — After a difficult two year battle to stay open, the Agoura Hills community is rallying behind We Rock The Spectrum kid's gym to help owner Dana Aghassi keep the local pillar afloat.

We Rock The Spectrum is a gym that specializes in supporting kids with autism spectrum disorders using "sensory safe" equipment and activities.

After two years of a pandemic-driven drop in attendance for in-person activities like birthday parties and open play time, Aghassi found herself about eight months behind on rent payment. One of her customers, Ilyse Boudai, noticed how stressed Aghassi was and started a GoFundMe page to help with the missed rent payments.

"It's been very, very tough. This place is like my sanctuary," Aghassi said. She added: "If we were literally a regular kids gym, or hair, nails, clothes — my doors would have been closed two years ago. But because we cater to special needs, I just can't close my doors. I just refuse."

The GoFundMe campaign had raised over $9,000 from 84 donors as of Friday afternoon. The goal for the campaign was set at $50,000. Aghassi said she's around $48,000 behind on rent.

"Throughout the pandemic, she has selflessly kept her doors open to kids, their families and the community to provide a safe and clean environment when needed," Boudai said on the GoFundMe page. "We've all struggled with school closures and the affect it has mentally and socially on our children that we can't afford to lose a kids gym, especially one like this who serves the community."

The support has been really meaningful, Aghassi said. Boudai described Aghassi as selfless and unconditionally giving on the GoFundMe page.

"It's amazing. ... When I hear people telling me how amazing the gym is and that they love coming here and playing, it's so warming to my heart and so good that people do want to come here and play and to support us. It's a nice feeling," Aghassi said.

Aghassi took over the Agoura Hills location, located at 30315 Canwood Street, around seven years ago after having worked at the Tarzana location. Aghassi has worked to build a reputation for the gym as a place where kids can unapologetically be themselves.

The gym has become a community staple for Agoura Hills, Calabasas and Malibu families, Aghassi said. Though the gym has special features and programming for children with disabilities, all kids enjoy playing at Rock the Spectrum.

"Our motto is 'finally a place where you never have to say sorry' because with the special needs kids, it's hard for a parent to go out with a special needs child ... it's nice that the kids can come here and all play together," Aghassi said.

Donate to the We Rock The Spectrum's GoFundMe using this link.