One thing that our Artistic Director Miss Mary has always tried to instill in our students is how important it is for us to give back to our community. She believes that using your gifts and passion to enrich the lives of those around you is one of the best ways to appreciate those gifts. Throughout the year, and especially during the holiday season, we take every opportunity to do just that. We would be extremely grateful if you would help us to brighten the lives of our friends and neighbors. Here are a few ways you can help:

• Our Giving Tree: There are still some wish list requests from the local families that we have adopted this year, so if you are able, please choose an ornament from the tree on the reception desk and return the unwrapped item with the tag attached to the box in the lobby.
• Step Into Christmas: Our Christmas Spectacular to benefit Gavin’s Got Heart has only a few tickets left, and we would love to have a sell-out crowd for the amazing performers that have worked to put this show together. The proceeds will help the families of local babies with congenital heart defects. You can purchase tickets here. If you can’t attend, a donation to the cause would be greatly appreciated as well!
• Making Wishes Grow: Now in its 4th year, this performance brings together dance companies, singers, and performers throughout the tri-state area to raise money that will grant a wish for a local Suffolk County child battling a serious illness. Part of our partnership with Make-A-Wish of Suffolk County, this show is a fantastic combination of entertainment and inspiration from former Wish Recipients that share their stories about how the Make-A-Wish organization changed their lives. Just like Step Into Christmas, if you are unable to attend donations are greatly appreciated. You can keep an eye out for the donation container in the studio as well!’
• Stars of Tomorrow Benefit: Our Performance Company will be traveling to SUNY Purchase on March 1st to perform at a benefit for Dancers Responding to AIDS. The event is very similar to Making Wishes Grow in that it brings together dance studios from all over to raise funds that give those in need “access to lifesaving medications, counseling, healthy meals and emergency financial assistance.” To donate to the team fund you can click here.

Every year Dance Connection is committed to using the gift of dance to brighten the lives of our community, and we are so thankful for your support of these worthy causes!