Imagine a child's face light up when she (or he) finds out she is given the opportunity to take a dance class - something she has never before experienced because of her family's tight finances. Sparking that magical moment of hope and possibility is what drives Decidedly Jazz Danceworks' Children's Bursary Program.

Since 1997, Decidedly Jazz has provided full and partial bursaries to hundreds of children from low-income families ages 5-16 to attend a summer dance camp or class during our fall or winter session at our School. We collaborate with many social service agencies, high needs schools and community organizations to select these children, including Calgary Family Services, Boys & Girls Club, Woods Homes, YWCA and Connaught Community School.

The impact of participating in a dance class goes far beyond the week these kids spend with DJD. Often shy and timid at first, it is remarkable to see the children become unafraid to try new things, gain greater self-confidence and coordination, make new friends and learn creative ways to express themselves. These are important lessons that they carry forward with them for a lifetime.

Our Children's Bursary Program relies on donations from people like you. Your gift, whatever the amount - will help bring a smile to a child's face. Tuition fees are $250 per child for a full-day summer dance camp.

Thank you in advance for your generosity!

Or download a pledge form that can be mailed or faxed to DJD.

For more information, or to make a gift, please email Kathi Sundstrom, General Manager or phone 403-228-8183.

Decidedly Jazz is a registered charity (#11888 3545 RR0001).

Words of Praise and Gratitude

"I don't think I've ever gotten such a great opportunity. It was great fun and I had a wonderful time. And the music was great. The teachers were kind and knowledgeable also very helpful.. And my classmates were fun and cool to work with. I never thought I would get so much out of dancing but I have already learned so much things that I know I can use in the future." - Children's Bursary Program Recipient, Age 14

Daina first became involved with our Children’s Bursary Program as a teacher at Spruce Cliff Elementary School. Although that school is now closed, remarkably Daina continues to volunteer her time and resources to personally drive children like Keji and Timothy to and from this low-income area to take DJD classes. She humbly explains: "For the past five years, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the joy that dance brings to kids who under normal circumstances would never have such an opportunity. I wanted to dance as a kid and my family could not afford it, so I know what it is like not to have access to extracurricular activities. DJD’s bursaries give children who are unable to afford dance classes the opportunity to try new things, meet new people, build confidence, take risks, and broaden their view of what is possible in their lives. They love dancing and can’t stop smiling when they are there or are talking about their time at DJD. They love showing other kids in their community what they have learned and are seen as leaders among their friends. Most of the children live in single parent homes well below the poverty line. Their families are so proud of them and could not be more grateful for the opportunity bursaries provide for their children and families."

"I was overwhelmed with happiness when I received notification of my daughter's scholarship. I want to be able to give my daughter the opportunity to flourish and expand her horizons, but as a single parent going to college, there are many obstacles in our way on a daily basis. She has always had a passion for dance and because of [DJD's Bursary Fund], she has had a chance to explore it, learning valuable skills, and gaining confidence along the way. DJD allowed her to be creative and let her natural rhythms flow. She has a wonderful time and hopes to be able to continue next semester." - Parent of a Children's Bursary Program Recipient