Crowdfunding success for dancing with parkinson’s in hackney

In December 2017 we launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise money for the Dancing with Parkinson’s programme at St. Joseph’s Hospice in Hackney. The classes offer an inspiring, artistic, dance opportunity for people with Parkinson’s, their partners, carers and family members in Hackney and surrounding areas and are highly valued and enjoyed by over 20 dancers with Parkinson’s.

The programme has been going for 15 months and interest in the sessions is continuing to grow. The Hospice continues to support the programme with space and local community support, however the classes could not continue without funding.

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It’s very important for me to come to dance for Parkinson’s because it gives me a sense that I can do things…I will not be defined by Parkinson’s, nothing is impossible and this class has taught me, YES! I can do it
— Elaine, dancer

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I’m delighted that we managed to raise £4,000 in 8 weeks, with sizeable donations from some generous anonymous donors.

The classes include live music from musician Jaka Skapin and a mentoring and training programme for dance artists who are given the opportunity to shadow and assist Danielle Teale (more information to follow soon).

Dancers have access to high quality delivery, with other specialists and artists joining the class regularly to assist, support and often as guests. This term, the group were joined by dancers from West End Musical ‘An American in Paris’, for a demonstration and insight into their work.

£4,000 will enable the programme to continue throughout 2018 providing the space, resources, staff and artists necessary for the programme.