Why I Give to NDI - Michelle
In 1990, when my son Michael was in the fifth grade at PS 124, our family felt a devastating blow. My brother and Michael's favorite uncle was killed in Harlem. It was a difficult time for all of us, but joy seemed to spread again through our home when Michael began dancing with National Dance Institute (NDI).
He started with dance class every week in his school, and was soon asked to join the S.W.A.T. (Scholarships for Willing, Achieving and Talented) team, which rehearsed weekends. During the five years Michael performed with NDI, I accompanied him each Saturday.
People talk a lot about diversity; NDI embodies it. Children who came from very different neighborhoods, ethnic backgrounds and economic levels, celebrated together on stage. Each child, talented in his or her own way, was equally important in creating the beautiful community of dancers. It was a glimpse of what New York City and the world could and should be. I have been an NDI cheerleader/ambassador ever since.
As a way to give back to NDI, I sell donated items at a local flea market, and contribute the proceeds in memory of my brother. I give because National Dance Institute, which is a free program paid for through private contributions, provides an invaluable scholarship to every child dancing across the stage. After each performance the children walk out with their heads held high. They are transformed.
It has been said it takes a village to raise a child. I am thankful NDI is part of our village. NDI helped mold my son into the man he is today, a new lawyer with a well-known firm. Michael didn't talk much about it then, but his experiences-performing at galas for the Governor of New York, the President of the World Bank (whose personal note is pressed in his photo album), at Madison Square Garden, and in Geneva, Switzerland for the 50th Anniversary of the United Nations, (to name a few)-were experiences he never could have had without NDI. These definitely had a lasting impact.
You can help a child just like Michael with a gift to NDI today. Donate Now.
