Isabel's Summer of Dance Studies

Hello friends and family,

I am writing to share about the opportunities I have been fortunate enough to receive for this upcoming summer. In June, I will attend a company experience intensive with Balletx in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This program only accepts twenty-eight dancers from around the country. I am so privileged to be one of them and to have received a five-hundred-dollar scholarship to attend. Later this summer, I will once again dance with Complexions Contemporary Ballet in New York City as a part of their pre-professional program. This program entails a two-week intensive in August, where we will spend our time learning Complexions repertoire. In the upcoming fall, we will perform this rep in a company performance at the Joyce Theater. I am so grateful for these opportunities, the teaching, and mentorship that have gotten me here, and the continued support and encouragement from all of you.

As a senior in high school living on my own in San Francisco, California, and attending a full-time dance training program, it has not been possible for me to get a job as I focus on getting my diploma. My parents have been gracious enough to support me financially, even as it may put a strain on themselves. I am forever in awe of their strength and of the sacrifices they make on my behalf so I can pursue my dream career. I know that no amount of money could pay them back for this.

Attending these summer programs is an integral next step in pursuing my professional career as a dancer. Next fall and winter, I will work to submit and attend auditions for jobs, making it increasingly important to be seen by these companies beforehand. Summer intensives are an expensive part of any dancer’s career as we pay for tuition, lodging, food, and gear out of pocket. I am doing whatever I can to support myself and my family in this venture by working over the summer and getting a job next fall. In the interim, I ask for any support you may be willing to offer, may it be financial or not. I also recognize the boundless support I have already received from each one of you. It inspires me to dance and work hard every day. Below is a link to my GoFundMe, 100% of donations will go straight into helping pay for my programs this summer.

Thank you for your continued support,

Isabel Vander Griend

https://gofund.me/81f1b501