In the last few weeks of May, over 200 applications have poured in to the Adrienne Arsht Center for AileyCamp, a summer day camp founded by the Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation that will serve at risk children in Miami-Dade County Public middle schools grade 6th – 8th. Taking place at the Center, campers will come from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds throughout Miami-Dade County to participate in disciplined dance training, creative writing instruction, personal development and communication workshops, as well as recreational field trips. On Saturday, June 13th, Center staff and volunteers will interview all eligible applicants and invite 80 students to participate in the day camp that runs from July 13th to August 7th with a final performance in the Knight Concert Hall on August 8th at 7pm.
Photo by Julieta Cervantes; courtesy of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
Throughout underserved communities around the Adrienne Arsht Center and in Miami-Dade County at risk youth lack the resources and role models that can help channel their talents and energy in positive ways. Research has shown that without direction, focus, or guidance, particularly during the summer months, these young people are exposed to the dangerous realities that exist in their communities including drugs, violence, poor nutrition, early pregnancy, and crime. A performing arts summer camp provides youth with an opportunity to explore their creativity, nurture healthy bodies, and strengthen their respect for themselves and others within a supportive framework that gives them an important foundation for the future.
Ailey campers develop a respect for themselves and others that will impact their lives far beyond the four-week program by stretching their bodies and minds while develop important life skills before their entry into the challenging years of high school.
Photo by Julieta Cervantes; courtesy of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
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