Volunteering at Dane Dances!
Background
Dane Dances! was one result of the Task Force on Race Relations which was implemented in 1998 by Mayor Sue Bauman. The task force was created to develop a strategic plan for respecting diversity and undoing racism in the city of Madison where 18% of its citizens are African-American, Asian or Latino.
Along with the implementation of the Study Circles on Race, it was felt that a social environment that included music and dancing would help break down barriers and just add "FUN" to the mix. In August of 2000, 3 dances were held on the Monona Terrace Rooftop and crowds ranged from 500 to 1000 at each event. As the word has spread, each year the dances gain more and more devoted attendees.
Mission And Volunteers
The committee that organizes Dane Dances! numbers about 50 committed community members who strive to bring diversity to all aspects of the organization of this event. The committee's mission is to create a place for everyone in Dane County to have a joyous social experience dancing to great music together. Out of that social interaction, we develop an appreciation and respect for our diverse community.
The Committees
The Committees of Dane Dances are designed to provide members with an opportunity to be involved in their areas of special interest. Committees function according to a definitive work plan, and their work reflects the overall mission, goals and objectives of the organization.
Band Committee
The Band Committee is responsible for listening to, assessing, and recommend for booking local and area bands and DJ’s. Of specific importance to this committee, is the secure ethnic and musically diverse bands. Quality and diverse music has the proven result of drawing diverse and satisfied participants.
Logistics Committee
The Logistics Committee has the responsibility of planning and coordinating the routine activities for each nightly Dance. This includes ethnic food vendor selection, selection of high profile community hosts to perform as MC’s, directing volunteers and hosts to appropriate areas, answering questions, updating the surveys, and performing other tasks as needed.
Publicity Committee
The Publicity Committee ensures that Dane Dances and its mission and activities, are consistently presented in strong, positive image to the public. This includes developing strategies to increase community awareness, coordinating the development of brochures, flyers, and posters as necessary, preparing and maintaining and an up-to-date a list of media contacts, and handling queries for additional information from the pubic.
Fund-Raising Committee
The Fund-Raising Committee is responsible for fundraising planning and implementation, including identifying resource requirements, researching funding sources, establishing strategies to approach potential sponsors, and assisting in the submission of proposals.
Beyond the Dances Committee
The Beyond the Dances Committee is responsible for coordinating Dane Dinners and developing and assisting in the implementation of activities/projects that fits with the overall mission of the group.
Event Volunteers
Event Volunteer only. If your schedule doesn’t permit you to serve on one of our Committees, you are more than welcome to volunteer the day of the event.
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