Billy did not think he would live past 16. Yet, at the age of 17, here he sits in the InnerRhythms studio, with a bright smile, surrounded by his dance family. As an InnerRhythms Board Member I had the honor of talking with Billy to learn about his journey to our studio.

Before we were lucky enough for him to walk through our doors, Billy lived in a foster home in Arizona. In this home, he endured abuse that no child should ever experience. After one of the longest years of his life in this home, Billy chose to go visit his grandma, and with this, made a solemn pledge to never return to the abusive foster home. Through previous connections, Billy eventually made the decision to move to Truckee and become emancipated – allowing him to begin his new life.

With no dance experience, but a dream to one day be on stage as a musician like Stevie Nicks, Billy was told about the InnerRhythms Scholarship Program by his school counselor and signed up immediately. From the beginning, it was clear to his fellow classmates and instructors that Billy had a natural stage presence and talent. As one of the many scholarship recipients at InnerRhythms, Billy is thriving in multiple dance classes including ballet and jazz.

When asked what dance means to Billy, he shared that dance not only provides him a positive escape and hobby, but has also taught him about self love and self expression.

“If it wasn’t for dance, I don’t think I’d be here today. Dancing gave me a different outlook on life and healed me.”

I have personally loved watching Billy’s skill and confidence grow – and this is the miracle of scholarships at InnerRhythms. When we say dance is for everyone, we mean it. And we are committed to never turning anyone away.

On this Giving Tuesday, will you donate to the InnerRhythm’s Scholarship Fund to support dancers like Billy? Dance is so much more than an artistic skill, and InnerRhythms is so much more than a studio. We are community, we are family, and dance provides self expression and healing for both participants and viewers. Our goal is to raise $5,000 for dance scholarships by midnight – and every dollar you can spare gets us one step closer.

In Billy’s words, dance scholarships “make dreams come true”. And you have the power to bring this dream to life.

In Community,

Kristy Oriol
Board Member, InnerRhythms