Our Story

Dance Houston is non-profit organization that aims to increase dance appreciation in Houston. We accomplish our mission through concert presentation, artist representation, and dance education with programs such as "Totally Fit!".

Totally Fit is a free program for girls ages 6-16 and is designed to benefit kids and teenagers who are economically disadvantaged and in need of healthy activities. Dance Houston works in partnership with a team of professional counselors, nutritionists, and nurses to ensure the pursuit of healthy lifestyles by the participants. The students develop strength, flexibility, endurance, and positive body images under the guidance of specially trained teachers. Classes focus on self-esteem, social skills and physical fitness.

How does it work?

- Participants register and are interviewed in order for us to determine their individual needs and what styles of dance they want to learn.

- Students attend Saturday morning sessions geared toward their individual needs for 7 weeks.

- Trained counselors follow up with participants on a monthly basis for a period of one to three years.

- A parent nutrition class is also offered every week the program is offered and during the same time as the kids’ session. The class serves as a forum for parents to voice their concerns and ask questions on how they can get their kids to eat healthier in general. The instructor arranges a supermarket tour with the parents so they can get advice and ask questions about eating healthier while looking at the products.

The Impact

 Our goal is to encourage and inspire these girls to get in better shape through dance, an art form that combines elements of exercise as well as self- expression. The program not only helps kids and teenagers with their physical fitness and body image, but it also helps them build the confidence they need to succeed in life. Not only is Totally Fit giving the kids the tools to live a healthier lifestyle, they are getting the parents involved, too.

It really works!!  Totally Fit has been helping kids for 2 years and running.  On average, participants lose .5 lb in 6 months, which is quite a significant loss for an age group that would normally gain 5-7 lbs a year in normal growth rates.  The kids have reversed their trend of gaining weight and are on their way to enjoying a healthy life!

Without the contributions of donors and funders, the program would not be possible leaving many young girls to continue a cycle of poor nutrition, low self esteem, lack of physical fitness, and unhealthy lifestyles.

What We Need & What You Get

Our goal is to raise $2,500 for the program. All money raised will go towards artist fees to pay our highly trained teaching staff.  Since the classes are free for participants, we rely solely on contributions. We understand that this is an economically challenging time for many, so we are encouraging small donations. Every bit counts!

To demonstrate our appreciation, all contributors will receive a personalized Thank You letter.  Contributors of $25-$49 will receive a complimentary Dance Houston membership including a monthly e-newsletter, discounted concert tickets, invitation to special events. Contributions of $50 or more will be granted a complimentary Dance Houston membership AND a Dance Houston t-shirt.  It’s stylin’!

Every dollar raised on this campaign will be matched by the Texas Commission for the Arts with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts. That means if we reach our goal of $2500, the program will get a total of $5000!

Other Ways You Can Help

Please spread the word and tag us on facebook (Dance Houston) and twitter (@dancehouston).

To learn more about the organization and programs offered, please visit us at www.dancehouston.org.