Grantee Database
RX BALLROOM DANCE
Grant Year
2026-27
Grant Program
Impact Projects
Award Amount
$17,500.00
Project Description
With support from the California Arts Council, RX Ballroom Dance will launch a culturally responsive Latin dance therapy program for Spanish-speaking individuals with Parkinson’s disease in Orange County and South San Diego County. Grant funds will support instructor costs for a pilot project addressing a critical gap: Spanish-speaking community members with Parkinson’s are increasingly isolated due to immigration fears, language barriers, and lack of culturally relevant health resources. Many are foregoing participation in free movement therapy programs despite evidence that rhythmic movement improves motor function, balance, and emotional well-being. We will serve at least 60 Spanish-speaking individuals by highlighting Latin dance forms with authentic regional music, taught by bilingual instructors who reflect the communities we serve. This is not simply dance instruction – it is artistic practice as intervention to rebuild trust and address health disparities.
Organization Summary
Rx Ballroom Dance provides free, adaptive ballroom dance programs designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and other neurological or age-related conditions. Our core programs blend the artistic beauty of ballroom dance with evidence-based therapeutic strategies to improve quality of life, mobility, and emotional well-being. All programs are culturally inclusive, community-centered, and accessible to people with disabilities.
1. Free Weekly Therapeutic Dance Classes
• Offered in-person at community centers and virtually for homebound or rural participants.
• Led by certified instructors trained in both ballroom dance and working with neurological conditions.
• Classes include standing, seated, and wheelchair-based options to meet all ability levels.
• Focus areas include balance, posture, rotational movement, strength, and confidence.
2. Care Partner Involvement
• Caregivers, spouses, and family members are encouraged to participate in class alongside their loved ones (free of charge).
• Dancing together fosters emotional connection, mutual joy, and shared progress.
• Care partners also become part of a broader support network, building ties to the community.
3. Participant Performances & Showcases
• Participants have opportunities to perform at events like annual galas and local showcases.
• Scholarships help cover costume, travel, and coaching costs so participants can proudly represent their diagnosis and cultural identity through
dance.
4. Community Engagement & Education
• Outreach at senior expos, support groups, and health fairs.
• Collaborations with organizations fostering cognitive, physical and emotional well-being as well as local care networks.
5. Instructor Training & Evaluation Partnerships
• Ongoing instructor training in adaptive dance practices.
• Program impact is measured through partnerships with Concordia University, tracking progress in balance, posture, and strength.
Together, these services create a joyful, empowering space for healing and artistic expression.
Organization
RX BALLROOM DANCE
Address
28 AGAVE CT
LADERA RANCH
92694-0877
County
Orange
Region
South – Los Angeles & Orange
Website
Congressional District
California's 49th Congressional District
State Assembly District
California's 71st State Assembly District
State Senate District
California's 38th State Senate District
