Sunday, January 18, 2015

THANK YOU OAC!

WE'VE BEEN FUNDED!

Our March Break camp will be heading in a new direction this year thanks to funding support from the Ontario Arts Council. We will be joining forces with AccessAlliance - AccessPoint on Jane, and working with the lovely Youth Director, Hani Ali!

I founded GOTTA BREAK! March Break Urban Arts Camp in March 2010. This project grew out of my personal interest to offer quality arts programming to children and youth who may not otherwise be exposed to it. We were initially able to run the camp, because of the generous support of GOTTA DANCE Studio. However, the students attending camp were mainly children already easily granted access to arts outlets. We kept the camp going and devoted camp profits to fund an outreach program. Last year, we successfully ran our youth mentorship program. This year, we get to build.  

This year's program will simultaneously reach 3 important goals:

1.     To offer youth in underserved communities a dance program where they can train with some of Toronto’s most recognized and respected dance leaders, while;

2.     Scout youth with natural dance talent and leadership qualities, who will join the creative professional team (the following year) and be given working opportunities to cultivate their skills.


3.     Empower leaders in communities to implement sustainable quality programming that will continue to encourage leadership/mentorship amongst youth and organizations.
      
     I am dedicated to offering a youth dance program with industry professionals and high quality arts education in a community setting. In this environment, participants develop creative minds and technical skills while building self-confidence, leadership experiences, collaborative skills and an appreciation for the arts. Working in tandem with established centres that are recognized within their community, will ensure the program takes flight. 

 Check in soon for updates on mentors and details - MARCH BREAK CAMP 

Manifesto "Hustle with the Youth" Workshop


Manifesto 2014 puts on another great workshop - and we got to be a part of it! Shout out to Bgirl Judi JuLo Lopez, who will be taking on an even bigger role this year in the organization. More great things on their way. Watch as Raoul Wilke and I teach the students of Rexdale Community Centre how to get down to good music and be able to dance with each other - New Style Hustle!!! New Style Hustle is a 70's partner dance from New York, that has been revamped by the street dance scene. Congratulations to all the participants for your focus and cooperation. Hope to see you soon!