Dear Friends, Family, members of our community and fellow dance lovers,
I never imagined that I would be writing this. Even when I started this studio almost 10 years ago with nothing but a prayer, I could not have anticipated the struggles that would plague us like they have this past year and a half. I am humbly, sincerely and with hope reaching out to this amazing community to keep my doors open.
Our studio, Central Oregon Dancers Elite, is in jeopardy of losing its lease if I cannot make a rent this month.
Having to close doors for more than half the year, losing students to strict protocols, ever changing rules and fear has crippled my operating budget. Normally, I would have had an end of year recital where ticket sales hold us over through summer. That didn't happen. It broke my heart to not celebrate these students at the end of their season. I care. I love teaching. I love the children that come through my door as if they are my own!
We’ve had numerous fundraisers (which I’m so grateful for) but unfortunately it’s only been enough to sustain us a little here and there.
I have worked around the clock to provide a varied and safe schedule. I have worked a second, sometimes a third job for a year just to put food on the table and to try and make a dent towards the studio’s increasing rent and operating costs. I have applied for the assistance, the extras, the relief- I qualify for none of it because I don’t have any employees (all of our instructors work on trade. They love teaching your kiddos and can’t imagine their life without dance).
I live simply, humbly, I can't afford loans.
I need your help. I am asking that you please help my doors stay open. There are not a lot of local options for our kids- don't let this slip away too.
Forever Grateful,
Peace, Love and Dance,
Miss Kelly
*All funds raised will be used for rent, electric, gas, floor loans/insurance and business insurance. None of it will be used for personal use. If there is anything left over it will be donated to the nonprofit organization Hall Performing Arts Group; which provides scholarships to kids in our community and all over Central Oregon.