Citymoves Dance Agency was one of the cultural organisations and charities that were in line for cuts in Aberdeen Councils' budget recently. Thankfully the proposed 100% cuts were reduced to 20% across cultural organisations and festivals. However, any reduction in funding makes reaching those most in need, more difficult. The cost of living is rising and often for those less finically stable, cultural activities seem like the most viable thing to cut from their monthly budget.
Citymoves, like other local cultural organisations deliver an array of projects in Aberdeen communities that often go unseen. Working in partnership with other charities and community groups based in regeneration areas in Aberdeen, Citymoves deliver dance workshops for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds through the project Strive. By providing a safe and supportive environment, participants' creativity is nurtured and self-expression encouraged, increasing self-esteem and confidence.
Dance for Parkinson’s was founded in 2001 and offered specialised dance classes to people with Parkinson’s, their families, friends and care partners. The specialised dance programme was originally developed in New York City and then rolled out to 100 communities in 20 countries around the world. Citymoves hosts two weekly classes designed especially for people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers. "Dance affects me both spiritually and emotionally through the whole range, and always gladdens my heart and lifts my spirits." Dance for Parkinson’s attendee. www.citymoves.org.uk/dance-for-parkinsons
At the heart of the organisation our mission to create open spaces for individuals to learn, share, connect and play. These sessions have a profound impact on the quality of people’s lives both individually and collectively. Learning and growing together through a shared goal ignites a sense of confidence, reduces feelings of isolation, creates new friendships and allows people to reconnect with their body and mind. These classes are also delivered to those with additional support needs, in care homes and hospital settings.
Citymoves can’t continue this important work without the help of local businesses and individuals who understand and value the contribution movement and the arts make to the wellbeing and lives of others. We are actively looking for sponsorship to support our work. Please check the various health and wellbeing projects we deliver on our sponsorship page www.citymoves.org.uk/sponsorship or email lynn.shaw@citymoves.org.uk for more information on how your contribution can make a huge difference to people’s lives.