ABOUT THE PROJECT

LOGLINE
DANCING IN A-YARD is a feature documentary about young, ex-gang members finding redemption and hope within a contemporary dance class. Hardened criminals don’t dance in prison but these guys do… and it’s beautiful, funny and heart-wrenching to watch.

SYNOPSIS
Dear Friends and Supporters,

Six months have passed since the first screening of DANCING IN A-YARD, and the impact of this remarkable film continues to resonate far and wide. From schools and colleges to art centers, museums, and even prisons, our movie has sparked conversations, won awards, and most importantly, inspired change.

We've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of "Dancing in A-Yard" as it reaches diverse audiences and touches hearts across the nation. Just last week, the governor's office projected our film to individuals working on the release of some of our characters, potentially paving the way for positive outcomes in their lives. The possibility of triggering the release of Tyson Atlas is a testament to the profound impact our movie can have on real lives.

Now, our mission is to ensure that DANCING IN A-YARD reaches every corner of the country, providing communities with the opportunity to experience its powerful message firsthand. We aim to host screenings and facilitate Q&A sessions with former incarcerated individuals and team members, fostering dialogue and understanding while offering hope and inspiration.

However, we face a financial challenge in achieving this goal. Despite the overwhelming demand for more screenings, many community centers, rehabilitation facilities, schools, and colleges lack the necessary funds to host us. That's why we're reaching out to you, our dedicated supporters, for help.

We're thrilled to announce that Tamara White, a generous and supportive donor, has pledged $20,000 as a matching grant. This means that every dollar you donate will be matched, doubling the impact of your contribution.

Together, we can turn $20,000 into $40,000 with your help, to ensure that DANCING IN A-YARD continues to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals. Your donation, no matter how big or small, will help us reach communities that need it most and spread a message of hope, change, and redemption.

Please consider donating today through our fiscal sponsorship, and join us in making a difference. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.

Warm regards,

Jean Martin and Manuela Dalle

PROJECT TYPE Documentary Feature

DIRECTOR Manuela Dalle
PRODUCER Manuela Dalle, Jean Martin

The Film Collaborative (TFC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing programs and services for independent filmmakers. TFC’s federal tax ID number is 32-0295081. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.

Support a TFC Fiscal Sponsorship Project

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Donor Advised Fund (DAF) Donations

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Tax Receipts

In compliance with IRS rules, tax receipts for your charitable gift are issued for the amount The Film Collaborative receives after payment processor fees are deducted. The Film Collaborative emails tax receipts in PDF format within 30 days of your online donation. The “receipt” that is immediately sent to you from PayPal after you donate is just a payment receipt, not the tax receipt.

Matching Donations

Many companies have matching gift programs and can help you double your donation to a project of your choosing. Sometimes these programs will match a donation up to a year after it was originally made! Check with your employer—if they have a matching gift program, they will provide you with instructions.

End of Year Giving

November, December, and January are big giving months each year. Donors top up their annual giving in November and December. January is a new fiscal year, and some donors start their giving for the next fiscal year early. Some donors even give at the end of the year and again in January since these donations fall into different fiscal years.

Donors tend to make their large year-end donation decisions before the holidays start. In 2024, that means before December 20. TFC can accept donations by wire, ACH, and Zelle until 5:00pm Eastern Time on December 31. Online donations by credit or debit card can be made until 11:59pm Pacific Time on December 31.