EMPOWER THE RHYTHM : Support SEEDS Youth program

Dear Supporters of Creative Empowerment,

SEEDS is reaching out to you with a call to action!

Swan, our afterschool dance program, is launching a fundraising campaign!

We are thrilled to share the incredible journey of Swan over the last year, a journey marked by growth, passion, and the resounding rhythm of success.

In the past 12 months, Swan has bloomed from offering 3 weekly classes to 11 classes per week. Our dance repertoire has expanded and we offer:

Ballet: Teaching poise and discipline.

Jazz: Igniting creativity and freedom of expression.

Hip Hop: Infusing energy and cultural dynamism.

Tap: Creating rhythm and precision.

Modern: Exploring contemporary movement.

Improv: Fostering spontaneity and individuality.

This growth reflects our commitment to providing diverse and enriching dance experiences for our students.

The Swan family has not only grown; it has flourished. In just 2 years, our student community has more than doubled, soaring from 32 to an inspiring 67 students including 4 student dancers who teach as well!

This is a testament to the impact of the transformative power of dance in the lives of our youth.

None of this growth would be possible without the unwavering support of our growing community. Your belief in SEEDS’ mission has fueled our expansion, allowing us to provide more classes, reach more students, and make a lasting impact on the cultural and artistic landscape of our community.

Why Swan Matters:

Dance transcends boundaries, connects hearts, and allows individuals to express themselves in ways words sometimes cannot. For our dancers, it serves as a powerful tool for self-discovery, empowerment, and community building.

Emotional Well-Being:

Swan is committed to nurturing the emotional well-being of our participants, providing a space where they can explore, heal, and find joy in movement. Our dance program is a holistic approach to cultivating resilience, confidence, and a positive sense of self.

Creating Belonging:

Swan is not just about mastering choreography; it's about creating a space where young minds can flourish. We provide a haven where every participant feels a sense of belonging, where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated.

Representation:

At SEEDS, our students see themselves represented not only by their instructors but also by each other. Students find strength in shared experiences, encouraging a sense of belonging and pride in their cultural identity through the arts.

Breaking Stereotypes:

In a world often clouded by preconceived notions, our program is a beacon of change. By empowering Black and Brown youth to express themselves authentically through ballet & dance, we challenge stereotypes and showcase the incredible talent, strength, and creativity that resides within our community.

Youth-Led Program:

SEEDS is proud to be a youth-led program where the voices and visions of our participants are at the forefront. Through leadership opportunities, we empower artists to shape their experience, nurturing a sense of ownership and pride.

Your Impact:

Today, we invite you to join us in making a lasting impact on the lives of our talented young dancers by supporting our fundraising campaign for dancewear and our much-anticipated end-of-the-year performance on June 14th, 2024, at Hoyt Sherman Place.

Dance Wear:

For our participants, the right dancewear is more than just attire; it's the foundation of confidence and self-expression. To provide each dancer with the necessary attire, we aim to raise $100 per participant.

End-of-Year Performance

The pinnacle of our dance program is the end-of-the-year performance, where our dancers showcase their hard work and artistic growth. This event is not only a celebration of talent but a transformative experience for our participants. To cover the costume for each dancer, we are seeking to raise $65 per participant.

**Cost Breakdown for Ballet Attire and Dancewear per Student:**

breaking down the costs of ballet attire and dancewear provides transparency about how your support directly impacts each student. Here's a detailed breakdown:

- Properly fitted ballet shoes are essential for comfort and technique.

- Ballet-specific tights ensure a polished look and proper muscle support.

- The leotard is a foundational piece to all dance attire

- Proper footwear is crucial for hip-hop dance, providing comfort and support for dynamic movements.

- Specialized jazz shoes for enhanced flexibility and foot articulation.

- jazz pants for a polished and professional look.

- Sturdy tap shoes with metal taps for clear and resonant sounds.

- Unique costumes for end-of-year performances are a highlight, contributing to a memorable and empowering experience.

- Accessories like dance bags, water bottles, or stretching bands contribute to a comfortable and prepared dance experience.

Your contribution towards Swan's fundraising campaign will directly offset these costs, ensuring that each student has access to the necessary ballet attire and dancewear. By supporting us, you are not just providing clothing; you are supporting an environment where every student can fully immerse themselves in the transformative power of dance without financial barriers.

EMPOWER THE RHYTHM:

Help Us Reach Our Goal of $11,000 for Swan

Together, let's empower our young dancers to break stereotypes, and create a world where everyone can dance to the rhythm of their authentic selves.

Your support ensures that SEEDS continues to grow- providing even more opportunities for Black and Brown youth to discover the joy, confidence, and transformative power found in the world of the arts.

With boundless gratitude for your continued support,

SEEDS