Our Mission
Rooted in the symbolism of the trillium—a North American flower whose three petals represent artistry, perserverance, and promise—our mission is to recognize and support emerging female professionals and dedicated dancers who demonstrate exceptional talent, character, or service within the ballroom community. We champion and support the future of those whose artistry, excellence, and commitment to dance create meaningful lives for themselves and others.
Trillium Dress Awards
The Trillium Award honors emerging female professional instructors who show exceptional promise for long‑lasting, meaningful careers in ballroom dance. This distinction recognizes rising professionals whose developing artistry, instructional excellence, and leadership positively influence their students and the broader community.
Recipients are awarded a custom, high‑quality dress that supports the start of their professional careers, helping them build financial independence and access opportunities that strengthen their long‑term growth in the ballroom industry.
We are looking for candidates who demonstrate potential to build long-lasting careers as ballroom dancers. Preference will be given to instructors and/or those who demonstrate financial need. Please nominate someone you know to help us find the best candidate.
This native North American trillium flower, symbolizes artistry, perseverance, and the promise of a blossoming career in dance.
Emergency and Disaster Relief
Professional dancers sometimes face unexpected crises that disrupt their lives, their stability, and their ability to work. The Emergency and Disaster Relief Program provides financial relief to dancers experiencing hardships due to medical emergencies, natural disasters, or acts of community violence. This financial support helps cover urgent expenses, maintain basic needs, and bridge the gap during moments when dancers are unable to earn income.
By offering aid, the fund helps dancers regain stability, protect their livelihood, and continue contributing to the ballroom community. It ensures that professionals facing hardship are not forced to abandon their careers, but instead have resources to recover, rebuild, and return to the work they love.
If you know a dancer experiencing an unexpected hardship, you can support them directly through the Emergency and Disaster Relief Program. You may nominate a dancer in need, or choose to make a donation on their behalf, which may be eligible for tax deduction and provide meaningful assistance during a difficult time.
Youth and Collegiate Dancers
Youth Opportunity Program
Young dancers often face financial barriers that limit their ability to train, perform, or access meaningful opportunities. The Youth Opportunity Program helps dancers continue their passion of ballroom dance by providing assistance for lessons, costumes, and other essential resources. This fund ensures that promising young dancers can stay engaged, grow their skills and pursue dance as a long-term career option.
Collegiate Resource Exchange
The Collegiate Dancer Resource exchange connects dancers with gently used items such as dresses, shoes, and accessories donated by supportive adults in the community. The contributions help collegiate dancers access opportunities, reduce financial pressue, and continue developing the dance community as a whole as well as potential emerging professionals.