DMF Youth is fundraising for our 2020-2021 season of afterschool programs! We partner with Title 1 schools and homeless shelters across NYC to underserved students with programs designed to promote physical, mental, and emotional health. Our partner sites benefiting from this campaign include PS 38 (East Harlem), River East Elementary (East Harlem), PS 126 (Lower East Side). 

DMF Youth programs are 100% free for all participating students. Our holistic approach to learning combines dance, academics, mentorship, and Social Emotional Learning (SEL). This model provides students with the tools they need to understand and express their personal strengths, challenges, and social responsibility. When we focus on social and emotional skills, students learn how to thrive in school, in work, and in their communities. 

In response to the pandemic, our Fall programs will be conducted mostly online. DMF Youth's online learning model brings students together via Zoom to dance, catch up, and participate in SEL activities that explore themes like teamwork, leadership, self-care, and mindfulness. Every participating student will receive a care package containing a DMF Youth original activity, arts and crafts supplies, and everything they need for a fun, active, and healthy semester! Each day of programming, we'll get up and get dancing, release some stress, and complete an activity or craft together. 

Our services are more important than ever as our students face a  "new normal.”  Many students are experiencing isolation and mental health challenges as they adjust to life during the pandemic. DMF Youth provides a space for students to express their emotions, express their creativity, and interact with their peers. DMF Youth's mission to support the physical, mental, and emotional health of our students has never been more important.