Bridge Builders Award
An organization that uses dance to engage at-risk youth and teach valuable principles like work ethic, tenacity, responsibility and creative expression.
A little over twenty years ago, many community members from low-income areas of Washington, D.C. had few opportunities to develop talent or express themselves in a structured creative setting. Since 1987, however, underserved and at-risk youth have enjoyed a haven of inspiration in the Dance Institute of Washington (DIW). For the last two decades, the Dance Institute of Washington has used the vehicles of dance and community partnerships to introduce young D.C. residents to the principles of work ethic, tenacity, responsibility, and creative expression.
After 15 years as a soloist with the Dance Theater of Harlem, Fabian Barnes founded DIW to ensure the youth of Washington, D.C. received the same opportunity he had found in dance as a young man. Today, DIW offers an array of courses to community members. Some programs provide an introduction to basic movements with an equal focus on education and enjoyment while others prepare students for further study of dance in a university or professional setting. All courses help develop fine motor skills, promote social and emotional development, and advance creativity and problem solving skills. For families unable to afford class fees, DIW offers a number of scholarships, ensuring the accessibility of dance to low-income D.C. residents.
In order to extend the tremendously positive impact of DIW’s programs, the organization has continuously reached into the community to forge effective partnerships with local organizations. First Position, a partnership between DIW and the United Planning Organization Early Childhood Development Center, brings dance to preschool-aged children in low-income areas around the District. A collaboration with the WVSA School for Arts in Learning allows classes to be integrated into the academic curriculum during the school day. Further ventures with Ferebee Hope Elementary School and Holy Redeemer Catholic School provide, after-school classes for grades K-8 that involve everything from ballet vocabulary and etiquette to performances in school festivals. The benefits of dance are not reserved solely for the young; DIW also brings weekly dance and fitness classes to Victory Heights, a senior housing complex. Classes help with cardiovascular and neuromuscular functions as well as improved balance, flexibility and strength.
After more than twenty years of service, the DIW continues to have a remarkable impact on the quality of life in D.C. communities. In 2008 alone, 700 students from local schools benefitted from classes, outreach and performances. The Dance Institute of Washington illustrates the power of arts and culture to provide unique, life-altering experiences that open the doors to new opportunities for the communities that need them most.
For more information on this program: The Dance Institute of Washington