Dina Kimmel - Founder/Owner
Dina Kimmel is a successful entrepreneur from the San Fernando Valley, who has owned and operated businesses for over 23 years. For the past
16 years Dina previously owned the Lucky You Retail/Resale Stores in Valley Village for adults and kids. Lucky You was featured on local TV
(NBC Channel 4 News), on the radio and in print.
Dina has always based her business structure on her passion and how she can bring value to the local L.A. community. Dina has also owned and run
an arts and crafts studio for kids in Toluca Lake, which gave families a creative outlet to explore their artistic nature.
Her husband and two children are the driving force behind her vision for the gym. Her vision and commitment are based on her youngest son,
Gabriel, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of two. Throughout these past 3 years, Dina has learned
that children on the spectrum like Gabriel, and children that are typically developing like her first born Sophia, can be entertained
and stimulated by the same toys (i.e. swings, puzzles, toys, etc.).
Dina’s commitment to her son has left no stone unturned when it comes to her family and friends. Dina researched the best talent and resources to
give her son the optimum treatment and therapy he required. Her family has stood beside her, while she has sought after only the best in the
industry when it comes to therapists, treatment, food and nutrition, recreational equipment, and more.
Here is her story:
“My name is Dina Kimmel. I have two children, Sophia and Gabriel. My son Gabriel was diagnosed with Autism in 2009. One of my biggest challenges
in Gabriel's therapy was finding a place where he could get his occupational therapy in a safe, gym-equipped environment. I found a place in my
neighborhood where the owner was nice enough to let me rent time for Gabriel's private sessions.
I cannot begin to tell you what the therapy sessions at this gym have done for Gabriel. When I heard they were closing, it took me 5 seconds to
know that I could turn this venture into a valuable place for families who have children with special needs.
It is my hope that We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym will be a wonderful addition to the community. I am so excited
to be creating a space that is not just for children with special needs and their families, but for ALL children looking for a safe, fun-filled
environment.” |
Tim Kimmel - world’s best husband and Dad
Sophia Kimmel - their daughter
Gabriel Kimmel - their son
Tim and their two kids (Sophia and Gabriel) are the Rock Solid Team behind the We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym. Dina and Tim have been married since 2002.
Tim is in the entertainment industry as an Award Winning Sound Editor. Sophia is just beginning third grade at Wilbur and is already
excelling in mathematics and reading. Gabriel just started Kindergarten in a typical class.
Gabriel and Sophia are their main passion for the gym. "Our big challenge has been making sure our daughter Sophia does not feel deprived from the extra time and
attention Gabriel has needed to participate in the world outside our home. Our vision is to create a community with other families that will be able to
grow and prosper to levels with regard to the best therapy, nutrition, and having a place the WHOLE family can enjoy together." |