USDA FOUNDERS MEMORIAL YOUTH FUND
A significant component of the USDA Youth Program is the establishment of the USDA
Founders Memorial Youth Fund. The Fund will provide the needed resources to realize the
full potential of our youth program. Over the past 10 to 15 years we have watched the
continuing decline of square dancing. The loss of youth participation is a major
contributing factor. By actively educating and seeking youth participation, we will be
educating and recruiting parents as well.
Square dancing is a vital part of America's history and tradition. Square dancing's
roots in America go back to early settlers. Yet, how many of today's youth, or even
adults, know of that history. America's youth should be taught that square dancing is more
than a dance, it is a state of mind. Let them see how square dancing represents our
country's warmth and unity by being a form of dance were almost every movement starts by
extending your hand to another. They should see that square dancing is an on-going
celebration of our country's roots.

Three goals have been developed to utilize the USDA Founders Memorial Youth Fund to its
full potential.
(1) Teach youth about square dancing, its history and traditions.
(A) Make educational and promotional materials available to youth.
(B) Make up-to-date instructional material on Modern Square Dancing available to
educators.
(2) Increase the number of youth participating in square dancing.
(A) Develop and distribute promotional and educational materials that present a
positive, upbeat view of youth participating in square dancing.
(B) Encourage the adult square dance community to seek youth participation in square
dancing.
(3) Establish a scholarship fund to assist and encourage youth square dancers to
continue their education.

To make a contribution or for additional information concerning the USDA Youth Program
or Founders Memorial Youth Fund, contact USDA Youth Advisory Committee Chair,
Dan Reedy
1028 Sunnyside Road
Alma, Arkansas 72921-7300
731.612.1155
E-Mail: usda.Youth.Advisor@usda.org

For more information on USDA Youth Programs
please contact our Youth Advisor:
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