At Fred Astaire Dance Studios – Pinecrest, we believe that dance is not just about movement—it’s about community, compassion, and making a positive impact. We are proud to partner with the Whitney Dance Foundation for the second year in a row for our annual Backpack Drive, an initiative aimed at providing children in need with essential school supplies. As we share the same director and work out of the same location, our collaboration feels natural and deeply meaningful.
Dancing for a Cause
Our dance studio has always been a place where people come together to learn, grow, and celebrate the joy of movement. Now, we’re extending that sense of community beyond our walls by joining forces with the Whitney Dance Foundation to give back to those in need. The Backpack Drive is a cause close to our hearts, as it aligns with our mission to support education and foster a nurturing environment for children.
Why This Drive Matters
Every year, countless children in our community head back to school without the basic supplies they need to succeed. This lack can hinder their academic performance and dampen their enthusiasm for learning. By participating in the Backpack Drive, we aim to help alleviate some of these challenges, ensuring that every child has the tools they need to thrive in school.
“Education is as vital as dance in shaping a child’s future,” says Elizabeth Whitney, Director of both Fred Astaire Pinecrest and Whitney Dance Foundation. “We are thrilled to support the schools in this important initiative and are confident that our community will come together to make a significant impact.”
How You Can Help
We invite all our students, their families, and the broader community to join us in this noble cause. We have set up a collection box at our studio, where you can drop off new backpacks and school supplies. Items such as notebooks, pencils, pens, crayons, rulers, and other classroom essentials are all welcome, but we recommend:
- Boxes of Tissues
- Tubs of Sanitizing Wipes (like Lysol)
- Expo Markers
- Pencils
- Pencil Sharpeners
- Loose Leaf Paper (College Ruled)
- Spiral Bound Notebooks (College Ruled)
- Mead Composition Notebooks
- 3 Ring Binders (1″-2″)
- Markers
- Highlighters
- Crayons
- Colored Pencils
- Glue Sticks
- Hand Sanitizer
- Ziploc Bags
- Pink Erasers
- Rulers
- Folders with Prongs & Pockets
- Backpacks
- Child-friendly scissors (Blunt tipped)
- Construction Paper
- Index Cards
- Ballpoint Pens
- Protractor
- Graph Paper
- Pencil Cases
- USB Flash Drives
- Rolls of Paper Towels
In addition to physical donations, we are also accepting monetary contributions. These funds will be used to purchase supplies in bulk, maximizing our ability to meet the needs of the children we are aiming to help.
Community Engagement Events
To boost our efforts and make the donation process even more engaging, we have planned several special events with the Miami Dade Police Department where we will be participating vendors.
These events are designed not only to gather donations but also to strengthen the sense of community and shared purpose among our participants.
Making a Difference
The Backpack Drive is about more than just providing supplies; it’s about showing children that their community cares about them and supports their educational journey. By contributing to this drive, you’re helping to build a brighter future for children in our area.
“We hope our efforts inspire others to give back and support our young students,” says Elizabeth. “It’s about creating an environment where every child feels valued and equipped to succeed.”
Join Us in Making an Impact
We invite everyone to be a part of this important initiative. Donations can be dropped off at our location at 14109 S dixie Hwy, Miami FL 33176, and monetary contributions can be made through our websites. Together, Fred Astaire Pinecrest and the Whitney Dance Foundation are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of children in our community.
For more information about how you can get involved contact us directly at (305) 988 – 1955.
Let’s dance forward into the school year with generosity, compassion, and a shared commitment to uplifting those in need. Your support can help ensure that every child in Miami-Dade starts the school year with confidence and the tools they need to succeed.
This collaborative effort highlights the power of community and the positive impact we can achieve when we come together. Join us at Fred Astaire Pinecrest and the Whitney Dance Foundation as we support local children in the community with our Backpack Drive and make a difference.