A longer note than normal in this space, but Victoria 5R is excited to announce that we've launched a campaign in support of Lucie Nerot’s Dancing Across Borders. Under the banner "A Chance to Dance," we're raising cash for her return trip to Cambodia next month. Hopefully a significant chunk of change will result from a Dec. 16 fundraiser, and we’ve got plans to keep the support flowing in the months ahead. [http://www.chance2dance.blogspot.com]
Lucie is dedicated to establishing Dancing Across Borders as an international non-profit organization. Her intention: That she and other teachers may continue to share the joy and transformation of the 5Rhythms practice with kids in poorer countries. Her destination: The Mesang District, which a generation ago was the heart of Cambodia's infamous "killing fields." Annual family income: $300. Read Lucie's words and browse the remarkable photos in the link under "Worldwide 5Rhythm Projects" at right, and you'll know instantly that she's making a huge difference.
“Lucie will return to the same village in Cambodia where she lived for a month last year, teaching 5Rhythms to two groups of kids, working for three hours a day with each group,� says Joanne Winstanley, the local 5R teacher who initiated the fundraising campaign and is rallying support. “I spent time with Lucie in California this summer and was moved by her love for the kids she had worked with, and by her stories of their experience with the dance.�
The seeds were sown back in the fall when 5R regular Kim Kelso asked Joanne whether she'd consider offering free classes at Victoria’s George Jay Elementary, the majority of whose students live below the poverty line. "We devised a plan: I would offer a series of free lunchtime classes at George Jay, we would ask the local 5R community to sponsor me, and I would turn over all donations to Lucie for her upcoming trip.�
And from there things have picked up speed:
* Classes are underway at George Jay, and kids from kindergarten to grade five are mixing it up joyously in the gym …
* We have been approached by a filmmaker who is interested in telling the story of our project.
* Donations are rolling in. If you wish to contribute but can’t get to class, please contact our treasurer, Nicole Lavoie, at nlavoie@shaw.ca.
* and the fundraiser is ahead of us:
When: Saturday, December 16, 6:45 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Fairfield Hall, 1303 Fairfield Road (at Moss)
What: Shake it with friends & fellow movers courtesy DJ Joanne
Bonus: Tasty food, festive socializing, and door prizes!
Cost: $25 suggested donation (more if you can, less if you must)
Details: jbateman@shaw.ca; 250.642.2056 (that's me)
Thanks for reading, and I'll keep posting as the project unfolds.
