Five pediatric patients at Grace Medical Home were the inaugural graduates of Grace's partnership with the Orlando Ballet S.T.E.P.S. program (Scholarship Training for the Enrichment of Primary Students). This innovative partnership is critical to expose Grace pediatric patients to movement, dance, and exercise as an enjoyable outlet.
For 13 weeks, the patients participated in dance classes ranging from classical ballet to hip hop. The first three classes assessed each child's ability before starting the 10-week intensive. Participants met at Grace once a week to learn new dance styles and prepare for the final showcase. Before beginning their classes, Orlando Ballet provided the individuals with complimentary leotards, tights, and ballet slippers.
"The S.T.E.P.S. program supports an active learning environment to provide a balanced life, increasing health, wellness, and fitness," said Nirvana Muniz, Grace's behavioral health and social work program director. "The Orlando Ballet S.T.E.P.S. program provides structure, support, and supervision that can help children succeed in the classroom and beyond."
Friends and family members attended the final showcase to watch the children perform a collection of routines created throughout the program. The participants received a S.T.E.P.S. certificate of completion at the end of the recital. In addition, one student earned a full scholarship to attend the Orlando Ballet Summer Camp for one week for displaying interest, ability, focus, and discipline.
One parent shared that their child loved the program, stating “[My daughter] learned a lot and she is now a girl with better self-esteem.”
Additionally, the Orlando Ballet and anonymous donors provided transportation and tickets for the patients and their families to attend an Orlando Ballet performance at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. For many, this was their first time experiencing a live, professional ballet performance.
More pediatric patients will have a similar opportunity for creative expression through summer art classes at Grace. Gabby Hammond, a Grace gap year intern, will lead the patients in art classes for two four-week sessions. The Orlando Ballet S.T.E.P.S. program and art classes are examples of how Grace supports patients' overall well-being.
