This is a dance program with affiliated 501 (c) (3) non-profit status. GOLD STARS provides youth from economically challenged families, who are in good standing in elementary, middle and/or high school, with free ballroom dance education. The youth practice weekly and participate in showcases, special performances, and competitions. With ballroom dresses being financially out of reach for these students, we are excited to offer our clients the opportunity to donate their dresses to this worthy program. Once donated the program retains and maintains the dresses for current and future use.
Our donation program was originally called “Take The Lead” however with the new sponsorship the name has changed to GOLD STARS. The concept of the program is still based on the movie Take the Lead and the real-life story of Pierre Dulaine, who taught dance as a volunteer to at-risk students in New York elementary schools through “Dancing Classrooms.” His program is not about teaching ballroom dancing. The dance is a tool for getting the children to break down social barriers, learn about honor and respect, treat others carefully, improve self-confidence, communicate and cooperate, and accept others even if they are different.
“In the process of teaching the technique of ballroom dancing, we also hope to incorporate other aspects of dancing: poise, respect, confidence, and social skills that will serve the students as they work together and mature.”
-GOLD STARS
Eddie Ares commented about this program, “Let’s pass the word and help our kids enjoy the gift of dance…a future U.S. champion is out there waiting!” He is now providing free entries at his competition for children age 16 and under who would like to compete; financially making ballroom dancing feasible for more families.
The new 501 (c) (3) host is a large senior non-profit organization that has provided programs and services to seniors since 1967. Their goal is assisting seniors with a wide array of needs. They offer activities that range from health promotion and prevention to fitness, meals, care management, transportation, home care, social opportunities, volunteerism, and lifelong learning. Every year they host a local Dancing with the Stars event. They now look forward to GOLD STARS participation in many socials and events with the seniors. They hope to create an “adopt” a grandparent program between the dance students and seniors, enhancing the understanding among the generations.
