Dance Programs Empowering Youth

As we continue to celebrate our 25 Years of Impact, the DEA Educational Foundation (DEAEF) continues to reflect on the successes of our very first youth program, the DEAEF Youth Dance Program. Due to the outcomes and interests, this program became the flagship model for all of our other youth programs. 

The DEAEF Youth Dance Program was founded on the concept that youth are much less likely to go down a negative path if they have an activity that allows them to express themselves, that is held in a safe environment and is led by a positive mentor. For nearly 15 years the Youth Dance Program has brought a meaningful outlet, drug preventon education and smiles to youth across the country. 

This spring the legacy has continued! By the end of 2025, The DEAEF Youth Dance Program reached 60 cities and has a goal of maintaining these programs in 2026. Youth from cities coast-to-coast, including cities such as Ankorage, Los Angeles, Lima, Manchester, Memphis, Miami, Salt Lake City, Washington, D.C. and dozens more, continue to dance in after school hours focusing on technical skills, learning new choreography, bonding with friends and self expression. In the words of our Associate Director of Youth Programming,  a YDP Scholarship student and a fabulous YDP instructor below,  the impact is moving.

"I'm inspired by the thoughtful, honest questions young people ask about drugs and alcohol; this is a powerful reminder of why this work matters." - Associate Director Youth Programs, Christina (PA) 

This entire 2026 year, the DEA Educational Foundation (DEAEF) will be honoring 25 years of impact; reflecting on our legacy and celebrating our future! Throughout 2026, we will reflect on our foundation that was built on vision and purpose. We will celebrate our important partnership with DEA and all the partnerships we have fostered with community organizations throughout the country. We will reminisce about our successful youth and community drug prevention programs that reach, inspire and protect. We will honor the resiliency and successes of our youth in working to reach their goals. 

One of our most successful programs to date, launched in 2012, is the DEAEF Youth Dance Program. This program which was piloted in just two cities, Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles, CA, has grown to reach over 55 cities alone. Students across the country are participating in many styles of dance including hip hop, ballet and flamenco just to name a few. This program became the model for all the other DEAEF youth programs including baseball, martial arts, soccer, basketball, art and more. The Foundation youth programs now reach 100 cities across the nation, and the dance program remains one of the most sought-after programs giving kids a positive outlet through physical activity and self-expression.

The years ahead call for continued evolution, expanded reach, and renewed resolve. We will celebrate the dedication of our amazing board, staff, instructors and coaches as they continue to work to save a child's life, one step at a time. 

Thank you for being part of our journey.

Links:

• DEA Educational Foundation