Leah is an exceptional teacher. My daughter really enjoyed the class. It definitely showed her sequence and structure. It gave a feeling of personal teaching but in a class setting. Leah definitely has professionalism, patience and poise. Love the class. Wishing much more success for years to come
I'm a person of few words. What I will say about LWDA is that it more than met my expectations. What an after-school program should have, LWDA has it. How a program should be run, LWDA does it properly. I always receive timely communication and it's always thorough. My child is happy, which makes me very happy. If I could give more than 5 stars, I would.
Is there a program out there that can care for your child just like a relative, but give them the firm realistic guidance they need to succeed in all aspects of life? YES!! There is, and LWDA is THAT program! From education in reading, mathematics, language arts and more, to career support, to nutrition education, to industry training to Performing Arts learning, there is so much that this program offers!! I need to make sure my child always has a spot, because every year it only gets better. Hands down, LWDA is a PHENOMENAL program!!
I am so pleased with this program. It could not have come at a better time. I love the focus on modesty, respect of oneself and others and the nutrition education component. This program really is a one stop shop!! It offers everything that a child needs in an outlet, plus academics to back it up. I highly recommend LWDA!
I had been looking for a way to allow my youngest to enjoy her passion and interests in life. Ms. Leah came into my life at just the right time. My little one was so excited to be part of this program, and she had opportunities that she has never had before. She has already gotten to dance alongside professional choreographers, and pre-professional dancers. It is such a great program and so needed in our rural town. I am so grateful and can't wait to see what they do next! I really hope LWDA is supported for years to come.
My girls have thoroughly enjoyed themselves from day 1. LWDA is like a second home for my girls and my family. We always feel such a warm, genuine, heartfelt connection whenever we walk into the program space. Ms. Leah is an absolute blessing to me, my family and the community as a whole. What I love about this program, is that not one single student is left out. No matter their skill level, or if they have a learning challenge, Ms. Leah goes out of her way to include everyone and make all the children feel safe and confident. I cannot say enough about this program!! 10+++++ I LOVE LWDA!! Wherever LWDA goes, we will go!
My children had a wonderful time! This program provided so much for their enjoyment and self-esteem. It also gave so much to the community, being led by the most compassionate stewardship. From the materials to the nutrition education, to the group activities, to the dance technique, this program has everything. I recommend LWDA hands down.
This was the first time my child participated in a program like this. My daughter had a lot of fun. The class was explained very well, and the concepts were grasped. The program met my expectations. I liked that it kept the children engaged and that they learned multiple disciplines. I hope for more students in the younger age group. :-) I do recommend this program for sure.
Everything that was done at the program was done very well. All the learning that was supposed to be received was received and more. What I liked most about the program was all the different dance styles, and the nutrition education. It would be even stronger with a more consistent space, since they utilize a central location in the city that sometimes has conflicting schedules. But overall, the LWDA program went beyond my expectations! Highly recommended!
This program is just what my child needs. So much has happened in her life, that an outlet like this brings her peace, keeps her inspired and busy. She's gotten to travel and participate in professional dance experiences that she may otherwise not have had. I highly recommend this program!
I am so pleased with the program, academic learning, nutrition education and encouragement that Ms. Leah provides. I highly recommend this program. It was the first time my child participated, but everything was always explained so clearly, and communication was always open and honest. My expectations were met. I would only suggest more helpers! This is an amazing program!
I love the time Leah puts in to introduce nutrition and several different dances, so my children can figure out what they like. My children enjoy going each week. They learned a passion for nutritional health and broadened their perspective on the world of dance. I like the program just the way it is! I wouldn't change a thing!
As a homeschooling Christian family, we love being able to come together with like-minded philosophies and principals in an enriched environment. LWDA provided an amazing source of physical education and a creative outlet. As a mother, I love connecting with the other parents as well, which feels like an extension of family and friendships. Seeing the older children helping the younger children by volunteering and being encouraging through a service minded attitude is phenomenal.
I have no complaints about this program. All aspects in terms of my expectations were met as I expected. I needed my daughter to be part of a program where the young girls were practicing modesty and respecting themselves. Dance should be about the technique, artistry, discipline and fun. Not about how much skin is shown, or how shocking and inappropriate the moves are. Leah more than delivered all of the best aspects of a respectable dance program and more. I am also pleased with the patience she displayed. I would just like more time in class, so my children can gain mastery of the dance disciplines. Overall, I LOVE LWDA!
This program truly is a blessing to our town. I am extremely satisfied with everything my children got to experience. I especially appreciate the patience and love that Leah has shown my children. I would definitely recommend LWDA to any parent.
Leah is patient, passionate and powerful! She is an amazing instructor and facilitator. I'm telling everyone about this program, and they keep coming! The program went beyond my expectations with fun, funky moves, food, education, and LOVE, who knew?! The joy! The children love to dance because Leah loves to teach. It's wonderful for my sons and daughters. To improve the program? Give us a fun-loving teacher with tons of experience and patience. Then have her teach our kids how to move and eat in a healthy way......WOOPS! We already have ALL THAT! No improvement needed!
I am very pleased with LWDA. There is a wonderful group atmosphere which is very positive. Such a nice group of kids, and Mrs. Leah is such an excellent teacher! The LWDA program exceeded my expectations, and I am thoroughly satisfied with the program as it is.
My daughters had an amazing time in the LWDA program during the spring. The skills taught to my children are so worthy and necessary for their continued success. I also loved the age difference with the students. It allowed for the opportunity to gain respect and discipline. This program went above my expectations. I am excited for the next season!
I was looking for a positive program with good morals. Mrs. Leah provided that in a safe environment. I am very satisfied with what my children learned. All the children are positive and dance to have a good time. I would definitely recommend this program.
This was my first time participating in LWDA or any program like this. I loved that there were different styles of dance. The program exceeded my expectations, and I would definitely recommend LWDA to any parent looking for a positive outlet for their children.
LWDA went above and beyond my expectations. I am so happy my children were able to participate. What I liked most is the patience Mrs. Leah has for my children and the community that as been built. I am looking forward to more group activities and the field trips!
Leah is one of the most positive and uplifting people I have ever met! Working with her and her lovely group of kids was magical! We spent a day at our community garden learning about plants and vegetables, then we did a movement activity based on plant structure and movement. It was fun, educational and unforgettable. I highly recommend this organization.
Leah Willis Dance Arts provides a number of programs aimed at using dance as a vehicle for education. Leah educates her students on elements of dance including history, terminology, technique, performance, choreography, and nutrition. By using these pedagogies, she has been able to statistically increase reading comprehension and literacy scores for children in the public school system. More importantly, she works to empower her students, to give them a voice through their exploration and discovery of dance. I had the pleasure of participating in one of her education sessions and was overjoyed by the happiness and confidence exuded by her students. The LWDA is a gift to our community!
This nonprofit is able to fill in the learning gaps, and create a powerful bridge between the DESIRE to learn and learning itself. They use such unique language that instills confidence in the children they work with, so that a blossoming takes place in real-time. It's quite remarkable. Schools and Homeschools alike need to see what LWDA is all about. There won't be any disappointment.
A small nonprofit on the rise, doing big things for the community (genuinely) AND with humility is a rare find. I appreciate this organization's transparency and integrity. Highly recommended.
Never have I seen a nonprofit with such tenacity. I have great respect for organizations that go the extra mile. If you're looking tor a legitimate place for your children to feel safe and comfortable, AND receive an impressive array of educational support, this is the place to end your search. LWDA has got it in spades.
Our youth have it hard enough just going through adolescence, peer pressures, and self discovery. Now with the ever changing circumstances going on around the world, our youth need now, more than ever, to be grounded in something that will fortify them to be strong, resilient, intelligent, patient and compassionate human beings. They need to be encouraged when they feel the need to stand for what is right, and use their voice for positivity. this organization, LWDA, is a safe haven for all of this and more. It is a home away from home, where students will be effectively taught concrete principals that keep them grounded, thinking logically and critically; using their own brain power to investigate, ask questions and research before drawing conclusions. LWDA is a place of amazing positive expression, and exploration of history that builds a healthy foundation for the student's future. Most of all, LWDA holds to truth, and they don't sugar coat things, so the youth are much better prepared to take on life's challenges. They don't gloss things over with "soft ideas" that may stifle growth and cause fear when faced with a real challenge. I am adamantly in favor of this awesome organization, and my only regret is that I hadn't found them sooner.
If there is any way to use the term correctly for an organization, this one is certainly it: The "One-Stop-Shop" or the "All-In-One" of youth programs. This one has got it all. From curriculum that helps with student's academics (homework help), to nutrition and healthy eating (Snack provided), to all kinds of Dance technique (physical activity AND cultural exposure), to Service Learning projects (community service), to performances (confidence and character building), and SO MUCH MORE. Word has got to get out about this organization. SO many youth can benefit from it. I highly recommend.
I was always a shy person. I didn't know how to make myself confident. Ms. Willis really took time and patience to help me and make me feel calm and comfortable. I didn't have to force anything. I had so much fun making friends, learning new Dance styles and finding my own way of being me! I love LWDA.
Dance has always been important to me. But with the academics added into each Dance class, I feel like I am getting the best of both worlds. I understand my regular subjects like math and reading so much better, and I can fly through tests. I am so happy this program exists. I know it is preparing me for my future, while still allowing me to keep my love of Dance.
Don't hesitate on this opportunity for your children. These classes are worth it for them, and help the entire family as well, especially with their focus on ingredients and nutrition. It's a win-win.
Bottom line: this program is real. No mess, no fluff, no nonsense. There is nothing hiding behind sequins, no ridiculous fees, no cookie-cutter 5-6-7-8's, no empty learning and no wasted money. This program is full of insight, and grounded in counsel. High quality education is at the forefront of everything they do here. The technique and care taken in the teaching process is wonderful and unlike anything I have seen in a dance class. If you are looking for an activity for your child, especially if you Homeschool, this program is the way to go. No question.
I'll get straight to the point. There just ISN'T a Nonprofit organization that is doing what this group of people are doing. If you haven't had the pleasure of working with them yet, contact them TODAY! Their programs are life-changing, innovative, unique and specialized. Each individual is supported, so that their strengths shine. I haven't met such a kind sole as Ms. Willis, ANYWHERE else. She goes above and beyond the call of duty, and will give you her last out of her own pocket. This is how much they care about the youth and the community. You NEED to take classes at LWDA. I cannot WAIT until they start their next Season!!!
To tell you the truth, there's nothing out there like LWDA. As a Father, it is my duty and joy to find programs that are safe, engaging, educational, positive and foster growth in my children. LWDA does all of that and more through their programs. I greatly recommend them to anyone searching for worthwhile activities and experiences for their children. Hands down.
Community service is crucial, especially in uncertain times when people depend on each other, but cannot always receive the help they need. LWDA prepares students to be empathetic, courageous and intelligent DO-ERS of good for humanity. They teach children at a young age, the importance of selfless giving, environment preservation and accountability for the future of everyone. I am (pleasantly) shocked that all of this is coming from a DANCE or ARTS organization, in such an open, accessible, honest and energizing way. I HIGHLY, recommend Leah Willis Dance Arts to ANY person seeking to work with an organization with TRUE integrity, and that cares deeply for the well being of all.
Being a part of these classes, means you'll be set for life. Literally. The way Ms. Willis dissects academic elements and makes them fresh, new and vibrant for children is unlike anything I have ever seen. And to mix it with Dance in an innovative way is genius! You have to see this program in person. For me, there is no comparison.
This organization offers so much! I love to Dance, and I want it to be more than a hobby. My career aspirations are both Artistic and Academic, and I want to feed energy into both. I saw that LWDA offers Internship Programs, as well as Volunteer Programs. The opportunities are very hands-on, allow you to learn a wide variety of skills, and offer training and performance opportunities as well!
This non-profit is a well-kept secret! I almost don't want too many people to find out about this phenomenal organization, and keep them to myself, but I absolutely have to say something about the extraordinary experience there is to be had here. Not only is every person treated with high integrity, but the students learn more in a 2-hour session at LWDA, than they would in most conventional schools, as it pertains to the combination of history, culture, academics and the "real world" that students will face once on their own. I am so happy to have met Ms. Willis, and can't wait to see what will be happening next at LWDA!
Don't waste your time at a conventional "Dance Studio." The LWDA program is a DANCE EXPERIENCE. And, to be real, Dance Studios are great, but the real-time, life enhancing, tangible building blocks that your child will receive from participating in LWDA is second-to-none. As soon as you can, check them out, visit their website and ENROLL!!
What I love about LWDA, is that it is diverse. Diverse in programs from: youth Dance Instruction, to Adult Technique, to programs for people with developmental disabilities, to programs that help people remain active in the every-day workplace. Diverse in the people they serve and communities they help to support. I haven't seen anything like it. I am very impressed, and I'll definitely be spreading the word about the great work they are doing.
There are so many positive things I can say about LWDA. But the main take-away from experiencing classes or programs here, is that Mrs. Willis treats EVERYONE like family. No questions asked, without doubt or fail, she will go above and beyond to make sure your student has everything they need, drive to you to pick up and drop off materials, and speak with you if you're having a not-so-good day. LWDA is a positive, uplifting experience, full of growth and care. Not just a place to take your children for something to "do." I highly value every moment spent there.
If you're looking for a diverse Non-profit, this is the one to check out. Not only have they been successful in three different states with Arts Education Programs, but here in St. Louis, they are the only organization to boost and enhance the Reading Comprehension of grade school students THROUGH DANCE!!! They also offer Adult Dance Classes, working through fitness, weight loss and nutrition goals. They do Service Learning and uplift the environment. What more can I say?? A WHOLE LOT! But I don't have enough room to write it all here! It was such a pleasure to get to know and experience LWDA. What a blessing to the community, and the world at large.
This is an unmatched opportunity for children and their parents. The way the Instructors and staff promote and demonstrate modesty to the young ones, as well as teach about maintaining longevity in career aspirations through integrity, hard-work and morals, is beyond top-notch! I would HIGHLY recommend this organization to anyone looking for something QUALITY for children and adults alike, to be involved in.
I've had gratifying and positive interactions with LWDA. Experiencing their social commitment, expenditure of time, and well placed faith in their young people, made it a delight to be able to help them, by making Company Tank Tops for an important performance at the Muny this summer. LWDA's tireless dedication to improving youth's lives and minds through artistic expansion and exposure, has heightened my sense of community pride. I'm happy to be able to give of my time and talent to help the youth that LWDA serves!
Carmella Y. Simpson
C. Simpson & Co. Tailoring & Designs
4144 Lindell Blvd, #321
St. Louis, Missouri 63108
Without a doubt, I am very satisfied thus far with the LWDA program. My Granddaughter participates, and I am so happy for her and her progress. Her diet has started to change. She has begun to look at food items in a more healthy way, and distinguish between healthy and harmful ingredients. I always want my family to be involved in something positive, especially the children. This program is very unique, and reaches the children at their individual level. My Granddaughter would come home and start going over the routines from class! The staff was always able to be reached, and the overall atmosphere is family oriented. Here is what my Granddaughter has to say about her experience:
Dancer Age 11
"Being part of the LWDA Program means a lot to me. It helps build up my body strength and it can help me if I want to go to college. I like everything about it. There isn't any part I don't like so far. I am given respect and attention, and I am learning a lot about dance."
This Program goes above and beyond my expectations, by what they provide the students. Aside from the physical fitness and endurance, healthy eating and dance technique, the Program also teaches the children how to follow instructions. What is important and exciting for me, is that the children also learn their true history, as so-called African-American or black children. As far as enrichment activities or artistic outlets go, this program teaches the children in all areas of life. The education they receive has built confidence within my children, and has raised their self esteem as well!
The LWDA Program enhances many areas of learning for my children. For example, they are learning the value of health and what foods are healthy to consume. This is just they type of after school outlet that I want my children to be a part of. It entices their ability to learn dance that they already love to do. I highly recommend this Program.
I'm a High School Senior, and Dance is important to me. About three years ago, at the age of 14, I experienced break dancing, well I looked it up on YouTube and saw the amazing B-Boys Battle. I still remember to this day how very very inspiring they were and thinking that they were the best. For months I saw the Jinjo Crew doing that type of stuff, I was wondering maybe I could try some of those dance moves. I first started with the power move of flairs but then I realize how the Massive Monks were doing foot work, so I started doing footwork. I wanted to create more styles, so I kept searching YouTube. Then one day my mom met Mrs. Leah Willis at a school function and later enrolled me in dance classes at Leah Willis Dance Arts - which opened my eyes to new ways of dancing, music and fun - African, Ballet and Break dancing.
Mrs. Willis taught me a lot of good things about West African dance and how to feel the music. One move in our West African dance routine she helped me understand by explaining it was like the art of Native Americans shooting a bow and arrow. She told me the dance move was similar to that, because I did not understand how to get my feet and arms to work together. It was pretty tricky at first but after she told and showed me that, I started to get the hang of the move. I had never really danced to music especially African music before – so being a part of the dance class exposed me to the West African music, songs, rhythm and dance.
Mrs. Willis’ dance studio was a lot of fun - she really was a very respectful and most of all a fun dance teacher. Also, I met other students that were pretty nice. I never really met a group of dancers like those at the studio before. Mrs. Willis’ even invited some fellow B-Boys and that experience was great and exciting. I was only used to seeing boys my age dance so one thing I was most glad about was I met dancers of all ages, not just teenage boys. Practicing with the group was fun and helped me control a little bit of my anxiety when performing in front of a lot of people. Yes, we had our laughs, but we also had our big moment performing at the Muny that was stressful. I mean, I performed before on a big stage but at that time it was completely dark so I could not see the audience. At the Muny, the performance was in broad daylight and you could see all 50 to 60 people. My anxiety was working up, but I focused on what Mrs. Willis said during rehearsals - if you have anxiety that means you're ready and rehearsal actually paid off.
I thought break dancing was just all about power moves, but I learned it's about style. Also, taking classes at the studio showed me how to work with the group and how to perform as a group. I learned a lot from being a part of the Leah Willis Dance Arts – new styles of music and dance and how to have fun doing it!!!
I have been having a very enjoyable experience watching my children participate in this program. It encompasses Education, Performing Arts, Nutrition, and everything that the program should have, to set children in motion for a positive future. This program has enhanced both of my children's social interaction, communication, self-discipline and good nutrition. The director sets a great example for the students and she is a very positive influence on my children. When I look for after school enrichment and artistic outlets, I appreciate if programs are productive and convenient. LWDA is located in the city and it gives my children a positive way to express themselves. In addition, it's good exercise! The Director, Ms. Willis, is always easy to get in contact with, and responds in a very timely manner. I am very excited to help and assist with their nutrition education program as well as at performances. I love seeing both of my children's work and effort come to life when they perform what they have learned. This is a great organization to assist children to grow and develop both in a professional capacity and personally.
Both of my Daughters Love this Program. They share their words here:
Daughter #1 (Age 13).
Being part of LWDA will mean that I will pursue a second career of being a Dancer, along with my dreams of being an Anesthesiologist. My favorite part of the program was a specific dance that I was able to assist with. The Dance Instructor, Ms. Willis is very open and respectful, and allowed me to share my choreographic ideas. She listened to me when I suggested a dance that we could do with beautiful fans. She said yes and we worked together on the concept and choreography. It was so much fun and this is my favorite part so far in this program. I was given attention and respect the entire time and every class. I would like to remain in the program for as long as it goes on.
Daughter #2 (Age 9)
Being part of LWDA means so much for my future. I believe that now, after being in this program, I can be a better Dancer and I also have a new talent. I have a better way to express myself, and something to help me transform my anger into something positive and creative. I am happy to have an adult woman that's like extended family, who has tolerance for who I am and what I am. My favorite part of the LWDA program is working hard on our dances and showing our community what we can do. I feel like I was given more than I could ask for and the most attention and especially respect from classmates and the teacher at all times. I would love to remain in the LWDA program for as long as possible and I would stay because it feels like my second home.
As a parent participant at Leah Willis Dance Arts, I am very pleased with how LWDA increases learning for my child. I saw a positive elevation in my Daughter's stability. My Daughter definitely listens much more. As far as after school programs go, this program goes above and beyond for what I would expect to have my Daughter engaged in after school. My Daughter looks forward to going on her program days, and she thinks much more clearly. I have no problem getting ahold of the instructor and I'm happy to support the program wherever I can.
Here's what my Daughter has to say about the LWDA Program so far:
Being an LWDA Dancer means so much to me. I'm learning about body movements and how to control myself in a very good way. My favorite part of the program is when we get to do Free Dancing. I really liked it all. It was very very nice. I feel I get enough attention and respect when I come to class. And I want to stay and remain in the program because I like to dance.
My Experience as a Parent of an LWDA Dancer:
The LWDA Program has definitely enhanced many areas of learning for my child in a major way. This Program has taught my Daughter discipline, technique and teamwork. In addition to that, she's learning healthy eating habits and lots of educational knowledge. This program provides exactly the type of after-school enrichment outlet that I want my child to have. LWDA is a very safe, loving environment, and they teach each dancer very well, giving them everything they need to know about Dance. The Director, Ms. Willis is always easy to get in contact with and responds in a timely manner.
My Child's Experience as an LWDA Dancer:
Being part of this program means a lot to me because I love to dance and I want to become a dance teacher. My favorite part of LWDA was Modern Dance and something I didn't like as much is Ballet. Ms. Willis has taught me a lot and I really appreciate how she helps me. I want to stay in this program because it teaches me how to dance and I want to stay as long as possible!
We at On Pointe Dancewear had the privilege of working with Leah Willis Dance
Arts and several of their Dancers a few months back. The Dancers were kind
and sweet, and so excited to be with their Dance Director. We were happy to
support this Non Profit Organization with a donation of brand new, professional
Capezio Jazz Shoes for their upcoming performance.
You can easily tell how much Ms. Willis cares about her Dancers and their
families, as well as the community her Program serves.
A wonderful organization!
We are happy to help Leah's Dance Arts and her Community Garden. We donated some Flower Beds, Tools and some essentials that will be needed for their Garden. We here at Lowe's like to take the opportunity to do whatever it is that we can do, to best help, and see fit for the community to be able to grow, from our standpoint at store level, and from Lowe's as a company whole.
LWDA is a wonderful Innovative Arts Educational program offering children of varied spectrums, the opportunity to learn; not only dance but the intense knowledge of human anatomy. I am very excited about the future direction of this program.
-Alane Quien
aka Eliana Batyah- Board Member LWDA
Leah Willis is a life long dancer and teacher dedicated to growing and expanding the mind and abilities of her students. Through personal experience I have seen the wonderful classes she teaches and how her students learn and have grown from them. To me her approach keeps kids involved and interested to go further with their dance and arts journey!
Regards,
Isaac Willis III
Nothing is better for our children than to teach them to move, to experience the freedom of motion, and to believe in their own power to take charge of their lives. That what LWDA does. This is a gift to children to be the authors of their own joy. Leah Willis Dance Arts is a treasure.
Michael Willis, FAIA
Proudly, I am the Mother of Ms. Leah D. Willis. From my own experience teaching Dance, and teaching with my Daughter, she has acquired and developed skills, a quality and a caliber that I feel any child would be able to glean from. I have also had the honor of participating in her program and I have seen first hand what the results are. The responses of the children that have participated have always been WONDERFUL and positive. LWDA should be included in all neighborhoods and participated in by anyone who has access to this program! It should be something that is well taken advantage of. The benefits of this program are phenomenal. Give this organization consideration, funding, and any support that can be given. Thank you!
Leah D. Willis Dance Arts is actually pretty phenomenal. They are in a new community, and they started out in California. Since Ms. Willis started the organization on her own, she's been doing quite an amazing job everywhere she's gone. Be it with school systems or independently. I am biased, due to the fact that I am her father, yet that shouldn't matter. She really does her job quite well. And several other people's jobs besides! She is great. She will always be great.
I am a Manager at The Home Depot on Hanley Rd. in Brentwood, Missouri. We're glad to help this Nonprofit. They have a great organizational model and great work ethic. We like to have good community involvement. We are fortunate that our company is super supportive and we are empowered to good things for the community.
I am a Store and Community Outreach Manager at Trader Joe's in Brentwood, Missouri. I'm Glad we had the opportunity to be a part of LWDA's endeavor. Their Mission resembles our own. With a collaboration like this that would actively benefit our communities, it was our pleasure to Donate and give our support. We aim to be your #1 grocery store. We always want to be engaged with the community.
I am a Store Manager at The Southtown Home Depot in St. Louis, MO. It was my pleasure to Donate to Leah Willis Dance Arts. Their values closely relate to our own, which begin with Trust, honesty and integrity. We do a lot around the holidays, but we are very appreciative when organizations have a genuine "inner smile" and do all they can to help kids.
I am the Store Manager of the Discount Dance Supply located in Mission Viejo, California. We provide high quality Dancewear worldwide. We are the site for Dance Teachers, Dancers, Fitness & Health, Careers, Auditions, and more. Mrs. Willis is setting her students on the path to greatness in Dance and in life through her program. It’s been a pleasure working with Mrs. Leah Willis. I am happy to Donate to this Amazing Program. It’s wonderful to know that these donations will help out all Dancers in their future careers.
My experience with this Nonprofit Organization has been highly satisfying and greatly rewarding. I am the Owner of the We Rock The Spectrum Kids Gym in St. Ann, Missouri. The CEO of Leah Willis Dance Arts and I, collaborated together and created a never-before seen, neurologically enhancing program for children who live with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. The Program is called LWDA Time To Fly!© This uplifted my world, because it positively affects my son. I think I have to say-I have to approach it from my personal experience. Anything that reaches my child, anything that helps him to engage with other people is a SUCCESS. And it is HUGELY successful. It went from him needing to not be with people, to actually being engaged and wanting more. And it happened within the span of what, 30 minutes? IT MEANT EVERYTHING TO ME.
LWDA delivers on what they promise. They are transparent, honest, carry integrity and love what they do. If you ever have a question about anything, they will go out of their way to answer it. They know what business acumen means and that says a lot.
I am thrilled to write about this organization. Innovation takes dedication and passion to achieve. One needs to be deeply in touch with the love of the Arts as well as the desire to enhance the Dance world for the better as well as the world at large. LWDA is no stranger to hard work, and the Directors have intelligent heads on their shoulders. I would recommend the work and people who operate this NPO to anyone in the Arts world. Kudos LWDA. Continue to strive for greatness.
I am very excited about the accomplishments this Nonprofit has made. They have worked very hard to make the Arts accessible to inner city youth, as well as the general public, without much support at the onset. Now they are spreading their wings in different states, to accomplish their mission. Keep going LWDA!!
This program enhances so many areas of learning for children. Social skills, team building, patience, academics, artistic expression, world dance history, confidence and completion of a task from start to finish, and the list goes on and on. I have so much to say about this program, but I will leave readers with this: Sign your child or student up for LWDA and watch him or her blossom by the end of the school year. You will not be disappointed, and it will be so worth your time. Get involved with this Nonprofit. They are doing Arts Programming right.
Dancing is something I never thought could be a vehicle for a positive road in life. Now that I see my child growing from within, because of Dance, I am inspired as a parent, to let people know how Dance and the Arts can change lives and make the world a more cohesive and positive place. These students work very hard and they stay busy. They want to achieve heights greater than themselves. Thank you LWDA for making this possible with all you do.
Since my daughter joined this program, she is so proud of herself! This is such a great place for her to be and she is accomplishing goals. I am pleased because LWDA helps keep kids off the street and helps them with their homework. This is a safe place for the kids!
This program helps my child in so many ways.
1.) It helps him in Math.
2.) Helps him learn many different dance styles.
3.) Increases his Health/Fitness.
What more can I say!? This program does it all and more! I love this program!
I am thrilled with this program. Both of my children love to dance and learn new ways of expression. LWDA teaches them self esteem and motivation. It also enhances socialization, and teaches teamwork and focus. The program embraces the child & the child's needs. Placing your child in this program gives them the opportunity to make Dance a future career.
Leah Willis Dance Arts builds confidence in each child and inspires them to do better. Their program meets our requirements as parents by allowing each child to express themselves.
Because of this program, my son is willing to do better in school. It's motivation for him, to participate in this activity. I'm very happy that I have less driving to do, since he's already there. They bring their program to my son's facility. Very helpful.
This program does much more than enhance various areas of learning for children. They get to explore all different dance styles. That is remarkable. For young children to learn and retain that much information while having fun is outstanding. They also benefit by: the Healthy Habits Nutrition Program, performing at Lecture Demonstrations, learning Career Competencies and much more. LWDA comes HIGHLY recommended.
For me, and my future, being part of LWDA means to be a good kid and respect! It is so fun to dance and a good way to exercise! I love it! It's fun, beautiful and the BEST!
I like this program cause it can make me smart about dance and be a dancer. My favorite part about the program was Hip Hop dance, and when we say "that's right!" I liked it all. Mrs. Leah is the best teacher to teach us new moves.
LWDA has helped my daughter with her self esteem. She works hard at doing what she likes. She practices a lot and focuses on school also. Instead of being at home, she is being productive, learning new music/dance styles and history on them. Physically, it's keeping her moving. She is super happy to be part of this.
I love this Arts Program because it gives my children an outlet to express themselves in a positive way. Outside of school, the children continue to work together, respect each other and reach their goals. This Arts Program teaches self respect, growth and gives them somewhere to belong. This is a positive way to put all energy into dance. Thank you.
The fact that they bring in learning subjects as well all different types of dance, helps the children enjoy learning. This program keeps them physically healthy as well, through teaching them healthy eating habits. This program provides exactly the type of after school enrichment/artistic outlet that I desire for my child. It meets my requirements in almost every way that is important to me. Eating healthy, great physical activity that's fun, lifelong learning and the ENJOYMENT of learning. The LWDA program is a way to keep children headed in the right direction.
To tell the truth, before they started here I was so worried about them all. Now they are focused, and seem to be so much more happy. Also SCHOOL WORK HAS IMPROVED 100%. Oh yes, my son loves it and my daughter is starting to be more of a social person. I sure couldn't afford to pay for the experience they have here.
This program means a lot to me because dancing is my favorite thing to do, and I want to grow up and be a professional dancer like Ms. Leah. I felt I was given a whole lot of respect while I was in the Program and she taught me some dance moves that I couldn't get, respectfully. Ms. Leah is just amazing. She brightens me an she taught me new amazing moves.
This is a life-altering nonprofit organization. The curriculum that they offer gives children an outlet not just in Dance but in life in general. It teaches teamwork, hard work, and allows them to see what progress looks like. It shows the parents how creative, focused, and positively daring their children can be, and that they can achieve something great. The feeling that these children have being part of the LWDA program is second to none. The Innovative Arts program gives children the opportunity to connect dance with academics. This organization helps children to learn the fundamentals of movement as well as the science behind movement. It is a worthy investment in the children's futures. This organization exposes children to professional elements in the larger Performing Arts Community such as theater, professional artist workshops, as well as performances at venues that they themselves host. LWDA also gives them a head start on creating their own professional career portfolio through photo shoots and building a choreography repertoire. I recommend this nonprofit organization highly, as it gives life to all organizations that do not have Performing Arts Outlets. Organizations like this do not come around often.
I am so grateful to be a part of the LWDA family. Being able to help LWDA build a new foundation in a new community has given me the chance to grow as a professional and as a person. The passion that Leah Willis and her husband have in changing the youth is contagious. You can’t help but want to give back as much as you can. I grew up playing cello and dancing, and I believe that giving children the opportunity to develop through the arts is an amazing thing. I hope that LWDA will continue to change the world through dance, education and determination.
The passion of dance has been ingrained in the founder; Leah Prunty, for more than 15 years. Through all her training and dedication to dance, she felt that she had to give back to the world; which is the reason for her creating Leah Prunty Dance Arts. Through this program, the organization has been about to provide students with knowledge, a passion to better themselves and the wherewithal to know that they can do anything that they set their minds to.
The Leah Prunty Dance Arts program is a wonderful non-profit organization. It is well designed and well staffed to accomplish the purpose of reaching our youth through the schools. The Artistic Director is very well trained in the many disciplines of dance and is academically qualified to bring a well-rounded experience to the young people!
I am pleasee my son is part of the LPDA. This program has given him confidence and a respect for the art of dance. This program teaches him more than just dance.
My daughter's middle school no longer has the arts programs and classes that it once had several years ago when my older child was a student there. She loves singing and dancing and these opportunites were no longer offered at school.
I was so happy to learn of LPDA. Having the LPDA program at school is a great thing, words cannot express my joy that my daughter has this opportunity.
The program teaches more than dance, which makes them better students and builds character. I love LPDA.
I know the founder personally, and she's dedicated to the kids of Long Beach. Her professionalism can only be matched by her care of building self esteem in all those this organization touches. Great Job Leah... Keep going...
Leah has devoted her life and time to the non-profit organization to help children. I had the privilege to be in class with her. We did a project in our Marketing class to promote the organization. She was an inspiration in class. We told the class how we were going to help the children that were unable to have economic security. We wanted to make a difference in the community. Children need financial and emotional support to make positive changes in their lives. We want the children to succeed and go to college. The drop out rate is extremely high and Leah is trying to make a difference. She has a family, but she is willing to put in the time and effort to help the community.