Charity of the Year, Chance to Dance, sponsor Roc Search
Mums have united to put forward a dance school and its founder for the Charity of the Year award, citing her “genuine passion” for providing dance opportunities for children with learning and physical disabilities as inspiring.
Chance to Dance, led by Vicky Andrews, “has been a fantastic creative springboard for many special needs children and a lifesaver for their parents,” said one mother who nominated them for the award, sponsored by Reading-based international recruitment company Roc Search. “The club has diversified into holiday camps, theatre trips, and discos, and has given my son opportunities and a social life he wouldn’t have had otherwise. We are truly grateful,” she added. Another said: “Every year I nominate Victoria and the team. As a family of a special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) child we couldn’t be without Chance to Dance.
“Not only do they provide a safe space for our daughter to express herself by dance and play, they provide us with the most phenomenal moral support and I know I speak for all of the families when I say this.
“Chance to Dance is not just a charity that provides SEND children with support, love and the means to grow and develop. They are a family – a family as a team and a family to us.
“We simply couldn’t be without them and they deserve all the recognition in the world for the hard work they do.”
A third mum told how her son, now 16, had benefited from the school for 11 years.
“We happened upon the group by chance and soon realised this amazing charity allowed Josh to realise his passion for dance, drama and performing, in a safe and supportive environment.”
Josh attends weekly classes, holiday clubs and the annual showcase each July.
With the support of a team of volunteers who give up their time and energy each week, he is able to participate in all that the school offers, said his mother.
“Vicky Andrews is the founder and her genuine passion for providing dance opportunities for children with learning and physical disabilities is inspiring.”
Do you know an outstanding person, group, school, business or organisation who deserves to win one of Pride of Reading’s 20th Anniversary awards? Nominate them at porawards.co.uk
