BellyJourneys
It feels great to give: to ones-self and to others!
by Karima Helou on 11/22/11
At the start of the 2011 New Year, I had a meeting with the Ancient Moves crew to discuss future projects, what we wanted for ourselves and what we would like to do for others. I am looking forward to our upcoming meeting highlighting 2012 causes. It is wonderful to keep moving forward with many constructive ideas and interesting projects.
In previous projects, we held a couple student recitals in which we raised approximately $400 in proceeds (per year) through ticket sales and donated the entire amount to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Brantford. The Canadian Cancer Society also received $781 last year, which were funds raised by us through our own production, "Celebration of Life." In addition, we participate in numerous shows where funds are raised for worthwhile charities, such as women's shelter programs and participating with the Kinsmen Club of Brantford through the International Villages Festival.
Every one of these experiences has been amazing for promoting a sense of community for the dance company, but also acts as a driving force for these dancers to work hard; to try to offer the very best of dance/belly dance/art for our area. I often take time to reflect on how so many dancers in our area, as well as neighboring cities, have pooled together their artistry for a great cause time and time again. They are all great causes; and all great artists. I feel honored to know them.
This year, Ancient Moves Dance Company became an official sponsor of an 11 year old girl in Egypt through the "Because I am a Girl" program. The link to their manifesto is here: http:// blog.becauseimagirl.ca/2011/11/21/child-rights-and-the-because-i-am-a-girl-manifesto/ . Our intention is to be her sponsor well into adulthood. To help her go after any goal she sets for herself and hold her head up high, knowing she has the support of many women on the other side of the globe.
Also, we are about to begin our 12 Days of Christmas fitness program where participants engage in 12 different forms of exercise in the month of December (Latin Dance, Belly Dance, Laughter Yoga, Yoga, Zumba, Bollywood, Chair Dance, Self Defense, CardioPunch, Poi/Voi, Pilates, Rhythm and Movement, etc...). Through the program, participants offer several non-perishable food items to be donated before Christmas to Brantford Food Bank and SPCA. This program has been a HUGE success every year and we will continue.
I encourage everyone to look to their community as much as possible and continue the giving. It is also important to take care of ones-self, to live with happiness and fulfilment so that if the need arises, we can continue to help others. A simple message before we conclude 2011, but an important one. The crew of Ancient Moves Dance Company and Studio wish our community the very best this holiday season and in the new year.
Keep visiting my BellyJourneys Blog!
Karima Helou








