Flex Dance Program Inc

FDP is a youth-serving nonprofit dedicated to the idea that artistic expression leads to transformative growth, Flex Dance Program is committed to helping students develop self-esteem, cooperation, and communication by transforming physical energy into positive, non-verbal self-expression that offers an alternative to conflict. We provide dance and mentoring opportunities to justice-involved youth in New York City, including opportunities to develop dances that tell their unique stories, perform at events, and join our team as youth ambassadors/interns. Since our founding, FDP has provided hundreds of justice-involved New York City youth with opportunities for growth, healing and creative expression through dance. 

We know that creative outlets, particularly those for youth in difficult situations, have only become more needed during the pandemic. FDP continues to provide lessons virtually, while safely bringing lessons back to our partner detention/foster care centers and group homes/community centers, as public health restrictions allow. We are grateful for your generous support to help us realise our mission.

Impact Snapshot

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  Youth Reached Annually

  
  

  2022: 2,640 through FlexOUT Fridays & events

  
  

  
  2023: 3,280 through FlexOUT Fridays & events, including 320 via FlexIN (CJC)

  
  

  
  2024: 2,760 through FlexOUT Fridays & events, including 120 via FlexIN (ACS)

  
  

  
  2025: 529 youth reached via ACS (Nov 2024–June 2025); Over 3000 reached via FlexOUT Fridays and events ongoing*

  
  
  



• Average Weekly Engagement: ~100 youth via FlexOUT and ~15 via FlexIN




• Youth Ambassadors: 25 peer leaders each semester




• Community Events: Monthly themed dance battles serving 100+ attendees

What We’re Hearing

• “Something to look forward to at the end of the day.”




• “It is a place where I can be vulnerable and I enjoy it very much. It has an uplifting environment.”




• “Out of all the programs, you’re the only one that really makes him smile.” – ACS staff

These words remind us that FDP is more than dance — it is community, healing, and hope.

The Flex Dance Program is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) organization. Contributions to FDP are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. All gifts will go directly to programming making an impact in our community. A gift of $25 sponsors one youth with a free dance mentoring class. This year we are continuing to collaborate with other NGOs in order to deepen our impact. Donations will also go towards our 2025 Toy Drive in collaboration with other Organizations.

Many thanks for your kind & generous contributions!

www.flexdanceprogram.org

Who We Are

FDP’s mission is to encourage positive growth within individuals through artistic expression and freestyle performance. FDP provides dance and creative mentoring sessions for at-risk youth throughout New York City.

FDP employs renowned dancers from local communities to develop dance routines with their students, promoting self-esteem, cooperation, and communication. FDP supports teaching artists making a sustainable living doing meaningful work. FDP staff empowers youth to express themselves through movement and transform physical energy into positive, non-verbal self-expression that offers an alternative to conflict.