FLNT, Michigan—Usually, this space is a for the community to gather and worship, but on Mondays and Tuesdays, it fills with children ready to scream, shout, and dance their energy out.
Thanks to Porcha Clemons, 27, of Flint.
Every week Clemons welcomes children at the West Court Street Church of God to learn hip hop, ballet, liturgical and jazz dance. It’s open to children from ages 5 to 19—and it’s free.
“These classes will give my granddaughter inspiration to just soar,” said grandmother Trina Stewart, as she watched the class. “At any age, a young person can take that one inspiration from one person and soar.”
Clemons, instructor and owner of Heart of Worship Dance studio, grew up dancing at her church, accumulating more than 13 years of experience.
“I had behavioral problems growing up and I remember seeing Creative Expressions’ dance recital and knew that what I wanted to do,” Clemons said. “It gave me self-control and discipline.”
She began using dance as an outlet, joining her high school’s dance team. From there, her passion grew, going off to college out of state and earning a spot on the majorette team.
Even after returning home, Clemons didn’t stop dancing. She created the Black and Gold Dance Team at Mott Community College and after graduating, competed on the Detroit Mechanix and the Detroit Pride dance teams.
Clemons’ goal now is to provide young people the same opportunity and exposure to dance that she had.
“They see it all of the time on television—dream about dancing for their favorite singer,” Clemons said. “I want to see the kids inspired. I can’t wait to see how they grow mentally, physically, spiritually—becoming leaders in the community and wanting to start change.”
Advance registration is required for children to participate in the dance classes and can be done
online here.
.
For more information, check out Heart of Worship Dance Studio’s
Facebook page or email Porcha Clemons at
[email protected].
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