Apply for 2024 Chapter of the Year

By Janet Martin
Contributing Author
Photos courtesy of Lolita Brawner and Chapter #6010
Tallahassee #6010 was the 2023 USA Dance Chapter of the Year!

Editor’s Note:  At the August 24, 2024, USA Dance Annual General Meeting, Social Vice President Ken Pandozzi announced the 2023 USA Dance National Chapter of the Year and the 2023 USA Dance Volunteer of the Year.  The 2023 National Chapter of the Year was USA Dance Tallahassee, Florida, Chapter #6010.  The 2023 USA Dance Volunteer of the Year was Mr. Greg Lingafelt from the USA Dance Orlando Chapter #6002.  AMERICAN DANCER provides access information for the full Annual General Meeting and this announcement. 

In August 2024, USA USA Dance proudly announced that Tallahassee Chapter #6010 was selected as the 2024 Chapter of the Year, and it was easy to see why. This vibrant chapter embodies the spirit of inclusion, innovation, and community engagement—while never missing a beat on the dance floor.

What Makes Tallahassee Shine?

Throughout 2023, Tallahassee #6010 hosted themed monthly dances, semi-formal events, and a variety of workshops and lessons designed to engage everyone—from complete beginners to experienced dancers. Their dance ambassador program ensures that newcomers are welcomed warmly and personally, often with heartfelt testimonies of the joy and transformation dance brings.

They offer free beginner dance lessons before dances, with an average of 26 participants per class. Their mixers, including fun and inclusive line dances, draw nearly 100% participation. The chapter also offers a dance host program, making sure no one sits out, and they recognize newcomers, out-of-town guests, and sister chapter visitors during announcements.

 

Always Dancing—Even During the Pandemic

While many chapters were forced to pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, Tallahassee continued to dance safely. They even filled the gap left by other regional chapters, offering lessons and dances specific to styles missing in the area.

Special Events & Growth

In 2023, the chapter held three special events, including a competition, dance camp/workshop, and a dazzling New Year’s Eve celebration. Their workshops attracted members, non-members, and competitors alike, and included private coaching and diverse dance styles—ballroom to country-western.

Thanks to these efforts, membership and attendance from the local area increased significantly.

Cultural Partnerships & Community Outreach

Tallahassee #6010 formed a meaningful partnership with the Asian Coalition of Tallahassee (ACT), representing 57 cultures. Together, they’ve used cultural dance to promote unity, understanding, and celebration of diversity. Their outreach helps grow not just awareness of ballroom dance, but also mutual appreciation within the broader community.

Grants & Growth

Since 2020, the chapter has been awarded $75,000 in grant funds, used to support special events like the Florida Sunshine Dance and New Year’s Eve party. They navigate the complex grant process with dedication, using funds to strengthen programming and outreach.

Chapter President Lolita Brawner with her husband, Paul Brawner.

Media & Marketing Powerhouse

Using Mailchimp for newsletters, the chapter delivers regular updates and original articles—some of which have been featured in American Dancer and the Tallahassee Democrat. Their January 2023 newsletter featured a local couple on the American Dancer cover for the second time.

They also maintain a rich, informative website (usadance6010.org) and a strong social media presence, networking with over 25 dance groups through Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Their efforts go beyond the local—chapter leaders also manage District 9 and District 10’s Facebook pages.

Chapter officials (left to right): Misty Greene – Membership Coordinator, Terry Hague – USA Dance Social Ambassador, Joan Vaillancourt – Member-at-large, Ann Funk – Vice President, and Rebecca Kelley – Treasurer and 2019 National Volunteer of the Year.

A Model Chapter for All

From hosting youth and homeschoolers, supporting DanceSport Nationals with a donation and volunteers, to encouraging spectators and supporting college engagement—Tallahassee Chapter #6010 is a shining example of what it means to grow dance, community, and connection.

🌟 Ready to Be Next? Apply for 2024 Chapter of the Year!

We encourage all chapters to submit their application for the 2024 Chapter of the Year Award by May 1, 2025. Let us celebrate your creativity, resilience, and impact on your community!

Keep dancing, keep inspiring—and maybe your chapter will be in the spotlight next year!

Janet Martin
(229) 630-0541
National Membership – Assistant 
USA Dance District 9 Director
USA Dance Chapter #6086 – Member

 

 

National Links:

website: www.usadance.org

https://www.instagram.com/usadanceinc

https://twitter.com/usadanceinc

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialUSADanceInc

https://www.facebook.com/groups/usadanceinc

 

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