Latin Ballet of Virginia
Catalytic philanthropy often requires risk and staying the course long enough to realize a potential reward. Soon after Ana King moved to Richmond from her native Colombia, she noticed that her daughter was not adapting well to the change in culture. Typically gregarious, her daughter had become withdrawn. The only time she showed confidence was through dance. From this experience, the vision for the Latin Ballet of Virginia took shape. Ana believed that art could be a powerful catalyst for social change – a common language to break down barriers and foster understanding.
Ten years since becoming a nonprofit, the Latin Ballet is the area’s preeminent Hispanic dance company, offering over 100 dance classes per week and numerous educational programs in schools and community-based settings. Ana believes this success is largely based on luck, but we believe it is also her willingness to take risks.
When the Cultural Arts Center of Glen Allen offered Ana studio space in the early days, she was doubtful anyone would show up. To her surprise, the classes filled quickly. With changing demographics throughout the region and an increasing demand for programming, Ana sought partnerships with other nonprofits, schools and funders. Just as Ana took a chance on her dream, TCF took a chance as well.
In 2000, TCF awarded the Latin Ballet its first ever grant to support the “Be Proud of Yourself” educational program, which exposes students of all backgrounds to the rich and artistic heritage of Latin American and Spanish cultures. A subsequent grant supported the opening of a second dance school in Chesterfield, where many Hispanic families live. Most recently, TCF supported board development and strategic planning through the Partnership for Nonprofit Excellence, which will help the Latin Ballet effectively manage growth going forward.
Through funds like the Community Arts Endowment, TCF is pleased to support small and emerging arts organizations. Smaller nonprofits like the Latin Ballet greatly complement the work of established arts institutions that have encouraged creativity and diversity of thought in our community for generations.