DANZAREA is a dance and educational project which gives at-risk children and teenagers in Panama the opportunity to learn (from home) contemporary dance, and enjoy the benefits of practicing dance in their mental and physical health. We supply their basic needs of food and medicine, while helping our students and their families to thrive regardless the extreme situation they live in their communities at the present time.

Challenge

1 out of every 4 children in Panama live in poverty. The public education system is deficient and lacks culture as a part of children's integral education. As a result, generations of young Panamanians remain in poverty, surrounded by violence, lack of values, respect, integrity and work ethics. The COVID-19 worsened the condition for our beneficiaries and their families. This is why we are also offering them not only dance, but psychological and academic support as well.

Long-Term Impact

This project which started in 2008 has already benefited thousands of children and teenagers from at-risk communities in Panama City, instilling love for art and culture. DANZAREA will contribute to the comprehensive education of the children with the goal that they remain in the project until they complete their high school education. They will be encouraged to finish school, continue with university studies, and become young adults that will sustain a job and finally break their poverty cycle.

References

1. http://www.gramodanse.org
2. https://youtu.be/-QxtpK5NF3g
3. https://youtu.be/FFzz3TVATYk
4. https://youtu.be/Tkz4PNWVmfs

Additional Documentation

https://www.globalgiving.org//pfil/32102/projdoc.pdf

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