Important Update: Summer Dance Institute Programming Changes

Dear JAE family,

We want to keep you informed regarding matters close to our hearts. Due to the ongoing social and political unrest and security issues in Haiti, we will not be able to lead the Summer Dance Institute in Okap this year. This decision prioritizes the safety of participants who live in Haiti, our partners there, and the JAE team.

JAE will be lengthening its programming in Santo Domingo for both Dominican and Haitian youth and adults. We also plan to lead additional programming in Boston for Haitian refugees this summer and fall when the team returns. JAE is keeping a very close eye on the current situation in Haiti and plans to return as soon as possible to lead our free programming.

If you know of any opportunities where JAE can work with Haitian refugees and community members in the Boston area, please let us know. We are eager to expand our reach and provide support wherever we can. We continue to stand strong in our pillar of Kiltirèl Conexiones (Cultural Connections), using dance to highlight our shared connections and foster hope for a bright, new future.

With love,
Jean and the JAE team

Dominican Republic:

July 8 - 12, 2024 Community workshops around Santo Domingo

July 17-Aug 3, 2024 SDI at Fundación Funtepod

JAE is thrilled to return to Haiti and the Dominican Republic this summer with extended and more comprehensive programming. Our summer programming in Haiti and the Dominican Republic will center around Kiltirèl Conexiones (Cultural Connections), using dance to highlight our shared connections and foster hope for a bright, new future. The Summer Dance Institute has served over 2,000 students since its origin in Haiti in 2006.

JAE supports youth to foster connections, build resilience, and heal from trauma

JAE is dedicated to empowering youth aged 5-18 through our transformative Summer Dance Institute. Our 100% FREE program offers a comprehensive curriculum from 9am-12pm daily, providing:

  • Yoga & meditation classes

  • Dance technique classes including Horton Modern, Afro-Contemporary, Traditional South African, & Haitian Folkloric

  • Visual arts & crafts instruction

  • Discussions about Haitian history, culture, & social issues

  • Clean drinking water, healthy lunch & snacks, safe transportation

The program culminates in a student performance. JAE offers extended programs during the school year for students to continue their education and growth.

Fundraising update - WE DID IT!

We are overjoyed and filled with immense gratitude to announce that we have reached our fundraising goal for the Summer Dance Institute! This is truly incredible—our community came together in such a powerful way, and we couldn't have done it without each and every one of you.

Your generosity has helped us raise a total of $100,000! A special thank you to Movement Arts Creation Studio (MACS) and the Social Equity Access Fund for their generous matching grants. And a heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed—your donations, big or small, made a monumental difference.

Your contributions will enable young dancers to foster connections, build resilience, and heal from trauma through the transformative power of dance.

(Updated May 16, 2024)

Summer Dance Institute 2023