Our Programs
Legacy LH History Continuum
Our Lindy Hop history and Legacy are centered around the accomplishments of our elders and impact of their legacy upon our community. The BLHF's commitment is to learning about our past, living in the present and building foundations for our future. Legacy is fundamental to the Black Lindy Hoppers' experience. Our Lindy Hop Legacy Continuum programs are designed to honor and preserve our roots. Programs such as the Swing Dance Museum, oral history projects and the like will allow our roots to build paths and interconnections across time. We welcome your program ideas that will build upon our foundational roots.
Mentorships
BLHF will provide learning opportunities (through intensive trainings), program support (through mentorships and financial support), information sharing and knowledge transfer for or in service to under-representated Black communities and audiences on a traditional African American art form. To provide performance opportunities for emerging artists to showcase their talent
Community Building
The BLHF recognizes that one of the challenges encountered by black Lindy Hoppers is that they are often isolated from each, other scattered throughout the globe. This feeling of isolation is a big reason for dancers to not feel welcome in the global Lindy Hop community. Our goal is to empower Black dancers within the community by providing a space for community building and development. Through our community program they will be able to connect and support each other with organizing local national or international meetups, attending events together or local practice organisation. The hope is to provide dancers with enough support to navigate the global Lindy Hop community.
Residencies
Our BLHF residencies are special artist and advanced educational platforms aimed to expand the Fund’s mission by fostering Artists-in-Residence through a long-term model and international support system. This program is offered by invitation only to a limited number of individuals carefully selected by the fund. The International Mentorship Program offers a sustainable model for Lindy Hop practitioners through a comprehensive program for the development, including mentoring and professional expertise, international residencies, exhibitions, and other professional opportunities. The residencies are 3-12 month periods in which artists will set long-term goals or seeking to reach, include and build the local Lindy Hop scene with African descent dancers.
BLHF Stewards
We invite you to share your passion for the art form by applying to become a BLHF Steward! We are seeking lindy hoppers of all levels and ages who would like to help spread the joy and interest in this Harlem born art form to friends, family, and other fellow dance community members. We will provide a consistent quality of tools and resources that will enrich you with access to mentors, classes, master classes and all while receiving a well rounded foundation in Black Culture and the culture of Harlem Danceis necessary for dancers to flourish. Ultimately, these opportunities will encourage you to create your own dance programs or events within your community. Our Stewards are more than just dancers; they are given the unique opportunity to be a part of the BLHF community as performers, instructors and representatives.
Youth Programs
The BLHF recognizes that dance is a valuable tool in engaging youth in positive, community-based activities that they enjoy. Dance improves academic achievement, self-esteem, and social competence. The BLHF is committed to provide support for stellar jazz dance programs (groups or individuals), and instructors providing dance enrichment for youth of all ages. We seek instructors with programs that foster a nurturing environment that emphasizes a well- rounded and thorough approach to the art form, and more importantly, to life.
Get Involved
Start a project or volunteer for BLHF.