From Dream to Reality: How Scholarship Donations Transform Lives (Including one of our own)

Dance has always been more than movement. It’s storytelling, discipline, confidence, and a kind of joy that becomes a lifelong companion. But for many young people, accessing training is a privilege that finances simply don’t allow. That’s where dance scholarship funds step in — and where your generosity can make a profound difference.

Behind every scholarship is a story. A dancer who dreams big, a family that works hard, a teacher who sees potential. Scholarships don’t just relieve financial stress; they validate a young dancer’s commitment. They say: Your passion is worth investing in. You belong here. Keep going.

Our Alumni and now valued staff member at Pacific Ballroom Dance, Faith Justus, tells her story below of how the Pacific Ballroom Dance scholarship fund blessed her life, propelled her dance journey and how our donors impacted her life.

“I wanted to express my deep gratitude to all of you—the donors who make Pacific Ballroom Dance what it is.

When my brother and I first discovered ballroom dance, we were immediately hooked, but at the time, we knew that being a part of the program was something we simply couldn’t afford. That was a very real barrier for us. Then, we learned about the needs-based scholarship program. I can’t even describe the joy and relief we felt when we were awarded scholarships. It was more than just financial support—it was a door opened to a world we never thought we’d get to be a part of.

Because of those scholarships, we had the chance to grow—not only as dancers, but as individuals. We learned discipline, teamwork, confidence, and how to push ourselves toward excellence. Those opportunities shaped me in ways that extended far beyond the dance floor.

Eventually, our family came into a place where we were able to cover our own expenses. And for me, it came full circle: I had the opportunity to become a TA. 

That role allowed me to step onto the other side of the dance floor so to speak—not just learning but teaching others the art form I had fallen in love with. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

And now, today, I am so proud to be on staff at PBD teaching our incredible Stars students. I often look at those amazing little dancers and remember myself as a new student, filled with excitement and joy. To go from that moment to now being entrusted to guide the next generation is something I cherish deeply.

This journey—from receiving a scholarship, to becoming a TA, to teaching as a staff member—would not have been possible without the generosity of our donors. Truly, you are the reason students like me get the chance to discover who they are through dance. Your support doesn’t just fund classes or costumes—it transforms lives. Mine is just one example.

 PBD has been such a defining part of my life. It’s opened doors I never thought I’d walk through and given me chances to grow in ways I couldn’t have imagined. For that, and for all of you who make it possible, I am endlessly grateful.”

It is a joy to watch Faith dance; she exudes joy with each step. What a gift it is to have her on our staff this season as she continues to bless the lives of her students each week.

Supporting the Pacific Ballroom Dance scholarship fund is simple, yet the impact is lasting:

• Make a one-time donation
• Set up a recurring monthly gift
• Donate in honor of a dancer, teacher, or loved one
• Sponsor a full scholarship
• Share the fund with friends and family who believe in the arts

Every dollar empowers a dancer to take one more step forward — sometimes quite literally.

When you donate to a dance scholarship fund, you’re giving more than money. You’re giving dreams a stage, confidence room to grow and the future of dance the support it needs today.

Your generosity helps to shape the next generation of artists. One dancer, one dream, one scholarship at a time. Thank you to our donors and those who are considering making donations to support our amazing youth. We are proud of our PBD dancers and so grateful our donors make it possible for us to help as many of our youth keep dancing as possible!