Ballet Bridges FAQ: Everything You've Been Wondering
What is Ballet Bridges?
Ballet Bridges is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit that makes ballet accessible to kids who wouldn't otherwise get the chance to dance, whether that's because of cost, disability, or simply not having a program nearby. We do this two ways: by offering free, high-quality ballet classes (in person with our chapters and online for dancers around the world) and by collecting and redistributing dancewear like leotards, tights, shoes, and costumes to students and studios who need them. Ballet Bridges has become an organization that ships donated dancewear as far as Peru, Uruguay, and Haiti, and partners with schools, local communities, special education programs, and so much more.
What are Ballet Bridges' goals?
At the core, we want to remove the barriers that keep kids out of the studio. That means:
Providing free, high quality ballet instruction to underprivileged youth and dancers with disabilities
Collecting gently used or overstock dancewear and getting it into the hands of dancers who need it
Growing our reach both across the country and internationally so more kids get access no matter their zip code
Building a network of volunteers, ambassadors, and eventually chapters so this doesn't rely on just one person or one city
We believe dance builds confidence, discipline, and joy, and that shouldn't be something only certain kids get to experience.
How can I support Ballet Bridges?
The biggest way to help is through donations. Financial gifts fund shipping costs (which add up fast when you're mailing boxes overseas), studio partnerships, and class materials. You can donate directly at balletbridges.com/donate.
Beyond money, we also rely on:
Dancewear donations: outgrown but still good leotards, tights, pointe shoes, and costumes can be donated (please email balletbridges@gmail.com). You can also apply to receive donated items through our website.
Studio and store partnerships: several local dancewear shops now host donation boxes for us, which makes collecting gently used gear much easier.
Spreading the word: following us on Instagram (@balletbridges) and sharing our work helps more families and studios find us.
How can I join Ballet Bridges?
There are a few paths depending on how involved you want to get.
Ambassador Program. This is our most flexible way to get involved. Ambassadors help represent Ballet Bridges in their own communities, whether that's organizing donation drives, spreading awareness, or connecting us with local studios and schools. We open ambassador applications periodically, so keep an eye on our Instagram for announcements.
National Team. We're actively working to expand our core team as the organization grows. If you're interested in taking on a more ongoing role, whether that's outreach, logistics, social media, or partnerships, reach out and let us know what you're interested in. You can also visit balletbridges.com/join.
Start a Chapter. Ballet Bridges chapters are active in several cities and states. If you're passionate about bringing free ballet access to your own community, we want to hear from you!
For any of these, the best first step is emailing balletbridges@gmail.com with a little about yourself and what you're hoping to do.
Who is eligible for free classes or donated dancewear?
Our in-person classes are currently based in a variety of communities around the U.S. and Canada with their own chapters and serve underprivileged youth and dancers with disabilities. Our online classes and dancewear shipments reach families and studios well beyond that, including internationally. If you're a dancer, parent, or organization interested in applying for donations, you can do so through the "Apply for Donations" page on our website. To join a class, please email.
Do I need any dance experience to take a class?
Not at all! Our classes are designed for all levels, including complete beginners. Our instructors focus on creating a welcoming, low pressure environment where kids can build skills and confidence at their own pace.
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes. Ballet Bridges is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so financial donations are tax deductible.
How do I stay updated on what Ballet Bridges is doing?
The easiest way is Instagram, where we post updates on donation shipments, volunteer spotlights, and open opportunities like ambassador applications. You can also check balletbridges.com for more blogs, newsletters, and the latest on programs and how to get involved.
Have a question that's not on this list? Send it our way at balletbridges@gmail.com. We're a, growing organization, and every question, donation, and volunteer hour truly moves us closer to reaching more dancers.