PROGRAMS - PAST



ASIAN REFUGEE YOUTH -DANCE AND WRITING PROGRAMS

Through a grant from The Laurel Fund and in collaboration with Asian American LEAD, CWA conducted dance and writing programs to help disadvantaged Vietnamese immigrants navigate the emotional and cultural transition to life in urban America.



Results and Impacts: Building bridges of friendship…

In addition to being a long way from home, 11-year-old Bich Ngoc had the added social handicap of facial scars from a harelip operation. Many of the other kids bullied and teased her. When we teamed her up with one of her tormentors, a 12-year-old girl named Hang, they learned first-hand how creative collaboration can build trust and friendship. They had to mount a theater-dance piece together in just three weeks, so they couldn't afford to fight. Their production was a hit, but more importantly, they became best friends, and Bich Ngoc is now a self-confident girl who's no longer an outsider.


 



ASIAN REFUGEE YOUTH- EXPLORING CULTURAL IDENTITY

Exploring Cultural Identity and Integration through Movement and Dance for refugee youth at The Indochinese Community Center, Washington DC.


Results and Impacts: Breaking down barriers of fear….

Many Vietnamese refugees attempting to resettle in America are intimidated by our multiracial society. As part of a workshop, an African-American dancer came in to teach them hip-hop. At first the youngsters were terrified, then intrigued, and finally won over by his warmth and charisma - and by his dancing. By day's end, they were dancing and joking and talking together. This opened the door to healthy confrontation of their fears.





AT-RISK YOUNG-ADULTS-EXPLORING CULTURAL IDENTITY

Exploring Cultural Identity and Integration through Movement and Dance at The Latin American Youth Center.


Results and Impacts: Working together as a community...
" At first, students were reluctant. For example, one of our students, Maria, who usually communicated through anger directed at another student, did not want to participate. However, she quickly became taken in by Ms. Tran's high-quality lessons and calming demeanor. Soon, Maria and her classmates were excited about the classes. As a result, students worked together more effectively and in the end, produced a beautiful dance performance for their graduation ceremony."
---- Jilla Smith , Sr. Development Associate, Latin American Youth Center (LAYC)