Mayor supports ambitions to exp Dance charity’s and in Berkshire
A DANCE charity is hoping to expand its services across Berkshire, and the Wokingham borough mayor is offering his support.
Chance to Dance Stars, a school offering dance classes for children and young adults with learning disabilities, holds fortnightly sessions in Bracknell and Reading.
Founded by Victoria Andrews in 2013, she now wants more students in the area to access her services as she plans to open up in more schools.
Cllr Keith Baker, who has experience in performing arts, is backing Miss Andrews aspirations for the charity.
“To show my support, I will be looking at attending as many of their events as possible, giving them lots of exposure and opportunities to raise money,” he said.
“Chance to Dance Stars opens up opportunities for children and the rapport and care between Victoria and her students is immense.”
Last month, Cllr Baker joined 22 students for a day of entertainment.
The event, held at the Beansheaf Community Centre, in Calcot, included Zumba, a bouncy castle and face painting.
Ms Andrews said the event was full of joy, laughter and entertainment.
“The lights went down, the disco lights came on and the party began,” she said. “We had students and a fabulous volunteer team all with extensive knowledge and passion to support our work in the disabled community.
“The students were smiling from ear to ear and kept saying how much fun they were having.”
Cllr Baker described the activity day as a “great success” and said the students had lots of fun.
Miss Andrews thanked Cllr Baker for his interest and support for the school.
“When you’ve got someone with the passion and understanding that he has around performing arts it really means a lot to us,” she said.
“To have Cllr Baker at our events means he is able to talk to the children and help us raise more awareness on what we do and how we support these students in developing their communication skills.”
Miss Andrews school is mainly run by volunteers who she trains up to be
able to run the sessions.
She is always on the lookout for more people who wish to help.
“Anyone with a passion is welcome to volunteer and we’ve even had students who have grown up attending our classes and are now volunteering themselves which is just incredible,” she said.
“To see our students develop in their communication skills and confidence, even if it’s just a smile from across the room, is what we are all about and that’s why I do what I do.”
Cllr Baker is planning a dinner dance gala for March next year where Chance to Dance students will get the chance to perform.
And a local X Factor star will also make a guest appearance.
He hopes to raise thousands of pounds from the event which will go towards support the charity’s services.
Cllr Baker added: “I’ve recognised that throughout the pandemic we’ve all suffered financially and I know money is tight, but I’m asking people to dig deep and find something to contribute for these disadvantaged children.”
For more information, log on to: sendanceclub.co.uk