Safety & Empowerment
YPAD: Building Empowered Dance Communities
Youth Protection Association for Dance (YPAD) is a non-profit organization dedicated to building empowered dance communities and keeping kids healthy and safe in all dance environments.
Our Journey
The Evolution of YPAD
2012: The Beginning
YPAD (Youth Protection Advocates in Dance) was initially created as an instructional and certification program, as part of a non-profit called EDIFY Movement. The program was founded by professional dancer Leslie Scott Zanovitch and a group of passionate advocates dedicated to creating safer dance environments.
2018-2019: New Leadership
In 2018, recognizing the need for more sustainable operations, the founder and board asked longtime supporter and original YPAD Certified Studio owner Misty Lown to acquire the program. Misty acquired and updated the course in 2019 to create more accessible education and certification options for dance professionals.
2022: A Bold New Direction
By 2022, the needs of the industry had changed, requiring a stronger standard and fresh direction for YPAD. With the help of seasoned dance, health, and safety professionals, the existing business and original courses were retired. A brand new YPAD was created with a new company and identity: Youth Protection Association for Dance™.
Our New Identity
The new name "Youth Protection Association for Dance™" was chosen to reflect that YPAD is a group organized with a common purpose: safeguarding dancers and empowering confident adults.
What We Stand For
Our Core Beliefs
YPAD is built on four fundamental commitments to the dance community and the dancers we serve.
Accessible Education
Education in safeguarding capacity-building should be available to everyone. We believe in democratizing knowledge about dancer health and safety.
Research-Driven
We engage in research to develop best practices in dancer health and safety. Evidence-based approaches guide our programs and initiatives.
Rigorous Certification
We certify dance studios and events by offering an earned designation that requires specific standards for safeguarding dancers.
Community Connection
We connect like-minded individuals who want to prioritize safeguarding students in dance and build stronger communities.
Dance Connections' Commitment
At Dance Connections, we are proud to be YPAD certified and committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and protection for our dancers. We believe that a safe, supportive environment is essential for artistic growth and personal development.
Learn more at ypadnow.com
Questions About Safety at Dance Connections?
We're here to help. Contact us to learn more about our YPAD certification and commitment to dancer safety.