Our Story
The Dance Vision Foundation was born out of a profound understanding of dance's transformative power and a deep commitment to mental health and wellness. Our journey began with personal experiences that shaped our mission and vision.
The Beginning
In 1981, Wayne, our founding member lost a brother to suicide after his battle with schizophrenia. This tragic event left an indelible mark, highlighting the urgent need for innovative approaches to mental health support. Years later, this personal loss became a catalyst for change, inspiring the idea of using dance as a tool for healing and connection.
Our Team's Stories
Our team comprises individuals who have experienced firsthand the life-changing impact of dance:
A professional dancer who found in dance a "far away place" of solace and self-expression from a young age.
An educator who discovered that dance not only helped manage depression but also enhanced their ability to empathize with students struggling with new concepts.
A dancer who, coming from marginalized communities, found in dance a powerful means of self-affirmation and visibility.
An autism specialist who incorporated dance to support the social and emotional growth of young people on the autism spectrum and their families.
Our Vision
These diverse experiences converged to form the foundation of our
organization. We realized that dance could be more than just a form
of art or exercise - it could be a lifeline for those grappling with
mental health challenges, a way to combat loneliness, and a means to
foster genuine human connections.
Our vision expanded as we recognized the parallels between the
struggles of learning dance and overcoming life's challenges. We saw
how the discipline, perseverance, and joy found in dance could
translate into resilience and emotional well-being in everyday life.
Our Future
As we look to the future, we ask ourselves: How many lives can we improve? How many instances of loneliness can we turn into connection? How many lives can we save? These questions drive us forward, inspiring us to expand our reach and deepen our impact.
Join Us!
Join us in our mission to create a world where dance is recognized not just as an art form, but as a powerful tool for mental health, personal growth, and community building. Together, we can dance more and live more.