Dance Programs Empowering Youth

The DEA Educational Foundation Youth Dance Program continues to be the most popular youth program and model for all of the Foundation's other youth programs. For over 13 years the Youth Dance Program has provided a positive outlet, team building, exercise and a place for artistic expression for America's youth. In addition to providing a safe afterschool activity and strong mentorship, the DEAEF Youth Dance Program is also a key platform for our drug prevention education.  Students in dozens of cities learned dance styles such as ballet, hip-hop, jazz, tap, cultural dance and more. In addition, dance was one of the activities presented to the youth/"littles" in our partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America and at several spring, summer and winter camps during school breaks. 

We also continued our important partnership through dance with DEA Operation Engage throughout the United States. With the support of the DEA field divisions we connected DEA Agents and educators with youth through launch assemblies, final demonstrations and class visits. Students loved showing off their new dance skills for their parents and guardians, fellow class mates and DEA representatives who presented about the critical work DEA does in their community to keep them safe and about the dangers of drug abuse.  We are proud of all of our youth and instructors who committed to staying active and drug-free through the artistic and physical outlet of dance.

In the words of our intructor Atiya Joe, New Mexico:

In 2025, we anticipate the DEAEF Youth Dance Program reaching 60 cities nationwide and our waitlist continues to grow. We are thankful to our talented and dedicated dance companies and instructors and in 2024, we look forward to continuing our mission of “Empowering Youth, One Step at a Time!”