Dance Programs Empowering Youth

In light of the opioid crisis, we now more than ever need to reach kids through positive prevention programs. Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of death for Americans under 50, with a 50% increase in overdose fatalities for 25 - 34 year olds*. This staggering and sobering statistic is why we continue to work so hard to offer free dance classes to at-risk and under-served young people through the DEA Youth Dance Program. As a contracted partner with the DEA 360 Strategy program (a comprehensive approach to combatting heroin and opioid drug abuse bridging local, state and national resources), we are reaching more kids with the power of dance. Most of these areas are in critical need of after-school programming, and we are working to raise funds to continue offering the YDP in these schools beyond our one-year of support through DEA 360.

To this end, we are thrilled to be mid-way through a successful One Step at a Time campaign, reaching kids in nearly 50 cities. There is more work to do, however, to continue providing high-quality, positive, and inspiring dance programming. We appreciate your ongoing support of our cause through your donations, and we ask that you consider promoting The DEA Educational Foundation Youth Dance Program on your social media by tagging: @deaedfoundation. With your help, we can reach even more kids with the power of dance as an alternative to risky behaviors, and increase their self-confidence in the face of peer pressure.

*https://www.justice.gov/opa/speech/deputy-attorney-general-rod-j-rosenstein-delivers-remarks-dea-fentanyl-guidance