Help Us Get Milani to the Alvin Ailey Summer Intensive in NY

Dear Family, Friends and Supporters,

I hope this message finds you well. I’m reaching out with a heart full of hope and gratitude to share some incredible news—and a humble request for support.

Our daughter, Milani, was recently accepted into the prestigious Alvin Ailey Summer Intensive in New York City. We feel this will be major milestone in her dance journey. Milani has been dancing since she was 5 years old, and now, at 13, she continues to impress us with her passion, discipline, and growth.

She currently attends the Debbie Allen Middle School, where she’s blossoming not only as a dancer but also as a dedicated student. Her talent and hard work led her to audition for Alvin Ailey after we attended a performance at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion—a night that left her on the edge of her seat, inspired and full of determination. From that moment on, we knew she had to try.

The Alvin Ailey Summer Intensive is a highly selective program designed to train and inspire the next generation of professional dancers. Students train in a variety of techniques, including ballet, Horton, Graham, jazz, and contemporary, under the guidance of world-renowned instructors at the Ailey School in New York City. The program emphasizes not only technical excellence but also personal growth, discipline, and the rich cultural legacy of African American dance. It’s a rare and powerful opportunity for young dancers like Milani to grow in an environment of excellence, passion, and community. To learn more about the program, visit https://ailey.org/training/junior-division-summer-intensive

Initially, we were unable to make the deposit in time and were heartbroken when all the spots filled. However, by some stroke of grace, a spot recently opened up—and Milani is back in! We've been able to secure some funds with the help of family and friends (for which we are deeply thankful), but we still need help to cover the remaining costs of travel, lodging, meals, and essential dance wear while she’s in New York.

We have calculated the remaining expenses to be $4,310. Every dollar will go directly toward making this dream a reality for Milani.

We truly feel that this opportunity could have a profound impact on Milani—not just as a dancer, but as a young woman finding her voice, her strength, and her future in the arts. To train with the Alvin Ailey faculty and be immersed in such an inspiring environment would be nothing short of transformative for her.

As parents, we are doing everything in our power to make this happen. But as the saying goes, “closed mouths don’t get fed,” so here we are, humbly asking for your support. Any contribution, big or small, will go directly toward helping Milani attend this life-changing program and continue her journey in the art form she loves so dearly.

If you’re able to help, we would be so grateful. If not, sharing this message with others who might be able to support would mean the world to us.

Thank you for believing in Milani and the power of dreams. This opportunity could truly shape her future.

With heartfelt thanks,

Jenny & Allakoi (Mom & Dad)