Jumping and breakdancing for joy

Footscray and Braybrook-based not-for-profit organisation L2R has received funding towards its free hip hop dance classes as part of VicHealth's 'JumpStart!' funding program. (Kimberley Summer)

Braybrook and Footscray-based not-for-profit organisation and charity L2R Dance has received a $50,000 boost to its annual free hip hop dance programs, as part of a VicHealth program.

The organisation joined 122 other organisations across the state in receiving funding under the ‘JumpStart!’ program, which is part of VicHealth’s Future Healthy initiative.

L2R founder and chief executive Jacinda Richards said the funding would contribute to free dance classes held across Braybrook and Wyndham, with participants then given opportunities to perform.

“L2R is really putting young people at the front, especially those who are under-represented,” she said.

“Our model is to have a professional artist team up with an emerging artist.

“Everyone is welcome.”

Spaces are available in the general Next Gen dance program for those aged 12 to 25, which is held every Tuesday during school terms at RecWest in Braybrook from 4.30pm for beginners and from 5.30pm for intermediate dancers.

L2R have also started gearing up for their upcoming annual Block Party celebration next April.

Other Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay recipients included:

* Pigeons Projects Limited in Footscray for story-making programs to foster connection and creativity in young people;

* Newport Calisthenics Club for their Future Coaches Scholarship and Newport Calisthenics Tots programs;

* Williamstown Lacrosse Club to promote reengagement with and participation in a team-based sport; and

* Western Edge Youth Arts in Williamstown for their ‘Out West’ Community Youth Theatre program.

Details: futurehealthy.vichealth.vic.gov.au and www.l2r.org.au

Matthew Sims