C&S Wholesale Grocers Helps Bring the DEAEF Youth Dance Program to Miami and Sacramento
Thanks to generous funding from C&S Wholesale Grocers, the DEA Educational Foundation Youth Dance Program (YDP) launched two brand-new workshops in June 2025—one in Miami, Florida and one in Sacramento, California. These programs are part of the Foundation’s growing national effort to provide youth with positive experiences through dance, movement, prevention education, and mentorship.
Sacramento, CA: Dance, Leadership, and Life Lessons
In Sacramento, the DEAEF YDP was integrated into an existing summer camp program at a local school, offering two Fridays of dynamic dance classes led by Miss Katie from Borne Arts Collective. Over 90 students in grades 1–6 participated in 10 sessions filled with jazz dance basics, stretching, and creative games like freeze dance and parachute play.
Juna Anderson, a 14-year-old local dancer and champion-level Irish dancer, volunteered as a program assistant throughout all 10 classes. She demonstrated moves, helped keep students engaged, and even escorted younger kids between classes.
“The kids had an amazing time… Even though they were having fun, they were also learning about making healthy choices and how to express themselves through their movement. Miss Katie was great at making sure kids felt included. She respected their choices if they wanted to sit out but always encouraged them to join in.”
Most of the students had no prior dance experience, but that didn’t stop them from leaping into stretching, isolations, spins, and beginner choreography. According to DEAEF Regional Director Kiera Anderson, “We are grateful the school was excited to include it as part of their summer camp. We hope to continue this great partnership.”
Miami, FL: Confidence Through Movement
Meanwhile, in Miami, the YDP partnered with the Hank Kline Boys & Girls Club for a three-day dance camp focused exclusively on 5th grade girls. Each day, students danced for over 3½ hours, diving deep into movement, music, and personal growth.
Classes were led by Eilleen Mallary, Executive Director of Culture Shock Chicago and a beloved longtime instructor with the DEAEF YDP. Based in Chicago, Eilleen travels to lead programs across the country, sharing her passion and energy with students from all backgrounds.
“The DEAEF Dance Program empowers students to make healthy choices and express themselves creatively through movement. We provide not only physical activity but also a safe space for mentorship, confidence building, and fostering positive relationships.”
Jill Roberts, President of DEAEF, praised Eilleen’s impact: “She brings dynamic energy to all of her programs. She’s so positive with the kids!”
Fueling the Future with Every Step
These two new workshops, made possible by C&S Wholesale Grocers, demonstrate the transformational power of dance and the value of community support. From California to Florida, the DEA Educational Foundation is reaching new students, offering them not only movement classes—but also life skills, mentorship, and moments of joy.
Due to generous corporate donors like C&S Wholesale Grocers, the DEA Educational Foundation continues to grow, expanding into new cities and adding innovative programs. With continued support, the Youth Dance Program will continue drug prevention efforts and changing lives, one dance step at a time.
Updated Sep 2, 2025
YDP, Partnerships