Dance is at the center of a new effort to lift minds and bodies in the Cincinnati community.
Dancefix Foundation, a nonprofit started by dance instructor and choreographer Heather Britt, officially launched this year to offer programs for children, adults and cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.
“We are so excited to launch the Dancefix Foundation, which will allow us to create opportunities to enrich lives and build confidence for everyone in our community through dance,” said Britt, who’s also the organization’s executive director. She said the foundation grew out of her 25-year effort to create welcoming spaces where people can dance regardless of experience or background.
“Dance has a profound ability to heal, empower and connect,” added Britt, who also founded the DANCEFIX fitness program. The foundation’s main programs include youth dance tied to school curricula, discounted and free adult dance and fitness classes, and movement programs for people affected by cancer.
Partners have included Cincinnati Public Schools, Northern Kentucky University, Christ Hospital, Mercy Montessori, the Holocaust and Humanity Center, Cincinnati Museum Center, the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati and Stepping Stones.
Since starting programs in January, the foundation has provided free dance opportunities to more than 600 children and adults.
“Our goal is to break down barriers and ensure that everyone, regardless of age, background or health status, can experience the transformative power of movement,” Britt said.
“Educational budget cuts hurt arts programs in schools and access to art education in many communities is in dire need,” she continued. “The Dancefix Foundation team is working to fill those needs through partnerships with local schools, community groups, arts organizations and hospitals.”
Starting on the right foot
The Dancefix Foundation team has assembled a board of local leaders to help guide the direction of the nonprofit, which Britt described as “making dance and fitness accessible for everyone in our region.”
Current board members are former Procter & Gamble employee Kelly Vanasse, who serves as board president; Patti Foster as secretary; Besty Chickering, treasurer; and trustees Alena O’Donnell and Alisa Smith.
The nonprofit will look to take its early efforts to the next level with a formal celebration of its creation with Studio DFX, a gala set for Sept. 27 at the Dancefix Event Center in Walnut Hills. The event is open to the public and will feature performances, personal stories from community members, a dinner, a VIP reception and a dance party. Gala co-chairs are Kathryn Harsh and Diane Rumpke.
Tickets and information are available at dancefixfoundation.org.
“There’s no better way for us to celebrate our launch than with dance,” Britt said.
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