USDA Profile

As a "dancers" organization, the UNITED SQUARE DANCERS OF AMERICA, INC. serves to represent the square, round, contra, clogging, line and heritage dancer in decisions which are made at the national level relative to the development and growth of the dance activity.  This representation takes place through the various State and Regional organizations affiliating with the USDA.  As a united voice, the USDA is able to express the views of the dancers on a national level so that they might be relayed to other national and international groups with whom the dancers interact such as leaders, callers, cuers, instructors, commercial enterprises, other dancers, etc.

Membership is open to any organized nonprofit square dance groups or other groups representing square, round, contra, clogging, line or heritage dancers that will subscribe to the By-Laws, Rules and Policies of the UNITED SQUARE DANCERS OF AMERICA, INC.  In states which do not have a statewide organization, or when the state organization elects not to join USDA, area or regional organizations may join the USDA to represent the dancers of their state.  Applications for membership in USDA are available from any of the USDA officers.

Numerous projects have been specifically undertaken by the USDA to fulfill the organization's goals and objectives and are progressing and expanding very rapidly.  Dancers and their organizations, as members of USDA, are afforded the opportunity to participate in the following programs available through the UNITED SQUARE DANCERS OF AMERICA, INC.:        

• Promote and perpetuate the total Square Dance Movement which includes Square, Round, Contra, Clogging, Line and Heritage Dancing.

• Establish a line of communication from the individual dancer to a recognized unified body so that an expression of varied opinions can establish or influence policy for making decisions at the national level.

• Provide for education to further the growth and enjoyment of Square Dancing.

• Encourage cooperation between member clubs, state associations, councils, federations; national and international organizations; or other groups involved or interested in the promotion of Square Dancing.

• Provide a forum for implementing the benefits of membership in the UNITED SQUARE DANCERS OF AMERICA and assist members in any way possible.

• Represent Square Dancing to the general public as a wholesome, enjoyable family type recreation.
• As a service organization, the United Square Dancers of America strives to provide benefits for the entire Square Dance community:
  • Economical dancer accident and club liability insurance coverage
  • Youth scholarships
  • Handicapable Dancer Assistance
  • USDANews - informative quarterly newsletter covering the USDA
  • Educational pamphlets and brochures to inform club and group leaders on the operational / business aspects of club activities provided to all at not cost via this website - www.usda.org
  • USDA USA Traveler Program to encourage dancers to travel throughout the United States with the goal to dance in all 50 States and receive a paid registration to the National Square Dance Convention
  • Social Media assistance has been added as another of USDA's services.
  • Centennial Dancer program awarding medallions to those dancers who have reached the age of 100.
  • Nonprofit status is available through membership in USDA for a reasonable cost.
  • Represent the Square Dancers within the broader Square Dance Community by serving on the Alliance of Round, Traditional and Square-Dance (ARTS-Dance) Governing Board.