Programs/Projects

Community Service Programs: The Heart of CBS

Mission Statement:

The Dance Arts Project is dedicated to empowering diverse communities through the transformative power of dance. By fostering creativity, cultural expression, and social connection, we provide free, inclusive dance workshops for individuals aged six and above. Through performances, mentorship programs, and staff training, we cultivate artistic growth, celebrate cultural diversity, and create a welcoming space where participants of all ages and abilities can connect, express themselves, and thrive.

Background 

Background: The Dance Arts Project (FY 2025-2026) is a dynamic initiative aimed at harnessing the power of dance to empower diverse communities by fostering creativity, cultural expression, and social connection. Recognizing the vital role of the arts in personal and community development, this project provides an inclusive platform where individuals of all ages and abilities can explore and engage in dance as a means of self-expression and cultural celebration.

The initiative is rooted in the understanding that dance serves as a universal language that transcends barriers, strengthens communities, and nurtures artistic talents. By offering free, high-quality dance workshops and performance opportunities, the project ensures accessibility to underrepresented communities, creating an environment where artistic skills and confidence can flourish.

Collaboration with local schools, community centers, and cultural organizations enhances the project’s reach and impact, ensuring that dance education remains accessible to all. Workshops and rehearsals are structured to align with academic calendars, taking place on a quarterly basis. Additionally, the project integrates cultural elements significant to the community, reinforcing heritage and identity through movement and performance.

The Dance Arts Project operates at the Columbus Youth Center, located at 1860 South 300 East, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, on Friday evenings and Saturdays from 11 AM to 3 PM. This central location provides a welcoming and safe space for participants to learn, practice, and showcase their talents.

The Community Building Services has been operating a Dance program since 2019 since its inception and virtual during COVID-19 time with the help of small funds on a voluntary basis.

Objective: The primary objective of the Dance Arts Project is to cultivate an inclusive and vibrant dance community where individuals can develop artistic skills, enhance self-confidence, and engage in cultural exchange through dance. The project aims to:

1. Provide Accessible Dance Education: Offer free dance workshops to over 50 young and adult artists, ensuring inclusive participation for individuals aged six and above.
2. Promote Cultural Expression: Encourage participants to explore various dance forms while incorporating cultural traditions that celebrate diversity.
3. Enhance Artistic and Social Skills: Develop participants’ dance techniques while fostering collaboration, teamwork, and social engagement.
4. Create Performance Opportunities: Facilitate performances at community events, external showcases, and cultural festivals, providing a platform for artists to demonstrate their growth and skills.
5. Offer Mentorship and Training: Engage experienced dance instructors and mentors to guide participants, offering project-related training to staff to support professional development.
6. Strengthen Community Engagement: Build strong partnerships with local schools, cultural organizations, and community centers to ensure sustained access to dance opportunities.
7. Support Emerging Artists: Provide aspiring dancers with exposure and opportunities to present their work, inspiring broader conversations about the significance of arts in community enrichment.

Impact on Residents and Communities of Salt Lake City, Utah: The Dance Arts Project has a profound impact on the residents and communities of Salt Lake City by fostering cultural appreciation, social cohesion, and artistic growth. By providing accessible dance education and performance opportunities, the project nurtures local talent and empowers individuals with confidence and self-expression. It serves as a bridge between diverse cultural groups, promoting inclusivity and strengthening community ties through shared artistic experiences.

Additionally, the project contributes to the overall well-being of participants by encouraging physical activity, mental health benefits, and emotional resilience through dance. Families and community members gain opportunities to engage in cultural events, strengthening civic pride and cultural heritage. The Dance Arts Project also stimulates economic activity by collaborating with local artists, venues, and businesses, further enriching the artistic landscape of Salt Lake City.

The project collaborates with the Asian Association of Utah, Utah Refugee Services Office, Craft Lake City, Salt Lake City Arts Council, South Salt Lake Arts Council, Utah Refugee Connections, University Neighborhood Partners, and several other community-based organizations (CBOs). These partnerships enhance accessibility, foster cultural exchange, and expand opportunities for participants, ensuring the sustainability and success of the initiative.

Through these objectives, the Dance Arts Project fosters an environment where creativity thrives, individuals gain confidence, and communities come together through the joy and discipline of dance.

Community Building Services is committed to providing free services to the underserved historically marginalized communities in Utah. Here we have a directory of our programs. Please, if any of these services would be useful to you, your friends, or your family do not hesitate to reach out to us. If you would like to support our continued ability to provide operate these life-enriching programs we urge you to use the donate button below or contact us to find out how you can volunteer your time. Thank you!

Cultural Programs

Community Events
Festival Celebrations
Participation in External Events
Youth Arts
Language Learning
Dance Classes

Capacity Building Programs

Computer Classes
Training/Workshops
Community Champions