Our Story
J-DAPA was founded 1998 as an after-school dance program at Thornton Elementary School in Johnston, RI. Our founder came from a low-income family and saw the importance of making arts education accessible, so classes cost just $3 per week and all recital costumes were sewn by volunteers. The program was so successful that it expanded beyond the school where it was founded, becoming a community program that was open to all ages. When the school department cut its drama program in 2011, J-DAPA began producing musicals too, and now produces several theatrical productions per year in addition to our weekly dance, voice, and acting classes.
As an organization whose primary goal is to keep costs low so that our programs are accessible to all participants, we are reliant on grants and private donations to assist with funding our programs, particularly our theatrical productions. Royalties alone for a popular musical can cost thousands of dollars, not to mention the cost of costumes, materials to construct scenery, technical equipment rentals, and the experienced staff required to oversee all aspects of these productions. Donations help us to offset these costs and keep our programs affordable for our participants, while also allowing us to continually improve our facilities and offerings.
Looking for other ways to support us? Buy a ticket to The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, which opens this weekend and runs through April 12!
What is 401Gives?
Powered by the Alliance for Nonprofit Impact at United Way of Rhode Island, 401Gives brings people together to make a difference for local nonprofits. In 2024, over $3.8 million was raised for over 600 organizations in just 36 hours. 401Gives unites and offers everyone a safe, comfortable, and familiar virtual fundraising experience all while giving nonprofits unrestricted funds that strengthen Rhode Island. Visit 401Gives.org for more information!
