TAPS, Inc.

I told you this was coming. Just out of honesty, this company has stolen my heart. The precious, precious dancers that have become a part of the Special Steppers class are the joy of my heart (besides my 2 boys) and also that little ray of sunshine at the end of my week. I am desperate to see this company fulfill the goals and commitments. As of right now we only have the funds to see this company through until the completion of the 2008-2009 dance year, which is in April. We are currently working to raise funds and have sent out over 100 Sponsorship Packets to individuals and businesses in the Wiregrass Area.
*Not being pushy I promise BUT If you would like to prayerfully contribute to the financial needs of this company or know of any individual or buisness who would be willing to become a Sponosor for TAPS, please let me know and I will get to you a packet of information.

What is TAPS, Inc.

TAPS, Inc. is a non-profit organization, formed in the summer of 2004 by a group of volunteers consisting of parents, families and supporters as well as a team of young aspiring dancers. Our primary focus is to enlighten the local community to the resurgence of tap dancing and to inspire other young men and women to learn more about the art of dance.

As of October 2008 TAPS, Inc. is a dance company made up of students with special needs, and are known locally as the Special Steppers. Our students range in age from 6 to 20 and each have a very unique medical diagnosis. Despite the special needs of the students, they each hold a passion for tap dancing that is far greater than most can begin to describe.

TAPS, Inc. encourages these young dancers to participate in activities which
- challenge their individual skills and talents,
- build higher self-esteem,
- develop heath and fitness
- and create a sense of teamwork with commitment toward a unified goal.

Our community and the surrounding areas will not only be enriched by the activities planned for the Special Steppers, but will continue to benefit from this group of directed, committed, and positive young people as they grow and contribute to society through their lives.

Our Goals:
To sponsor the Special Steppers program, a tap dance class specifically tailored for citizens of the Wiregrass community with special needs.

To develop and promote outreach programs, designed to encourage health, fitness and self-confidence, especially in school-aged children.

To offer scholarships to further enrich area dancer’s technique and performance skills
through special programs and training.

Our Commitment:
To continue to provide additional opportunities to dancers with special needs, improving physical and motor coordination through the rhythm of dance and interaction with others.

To promote dance as a vital aspect to fitness and healthy living and as a means to encourage a true sense of team work and to build higher self-esteem.

To provide opportunities for dancers in the Wiregrass, including Special Steppers, in order to enhance their skills in public venues while both preserving the art of and enriching the community through tap dance.

Special Steppers Program
We believe the rhythm of dance can play an important role in a child’s development, especially those with special needs. Dance and the interaction with others contribute to physical and motor coordination, as well as the growth of self-esteem. As a result of this conviction, TAPS, In. is committed to sponsoring the Special Steppers program.

This program is designed to give a special group of children the opportunity to take tap dance classes, an opportunity never before offered in the Wiregrass Area. Funded by the donations made to and the fund raising of TAPS, Inc. this endeavor should prove to be fun, exciting and educational for the dancers and their families. Through music and dance, they will not only learn new skills, but will also improve their physical, mental and interpersonal abilities despite their limitations.

Each member of the Special Steppers class receives a pair of tap shoes and weekly classes at the Kelly School of Dance. At the end of each year, each of these very special dancers is given an opportunity to perform, in costume, at the Dothan Civic Center and the Kelly School of Dance annual dance recital.

As of October 2008, TAPS, Inc. is sponsoring two Special Steppers classes under the direction of Megan Clark-Brezina. We are offering a class for our 3rd year student and also have available a class for our beginners. There are currently 11 students enrolled, with room for a few more.