Love to Dance x Merritt Dance Society

 

Our Culture

Love To Dance Academy operates as a program of the Merritt Dance Society, a local nonprofit organization that provides funding support to the studio. We are committed to offering high-quality instruction in a variety of dance disciplines for students of all ages. Our goal is to nurture a supportive environment where dancers can grow, build confidence, and explore different areas of their passion for dance.

Our Nonprofit Organization

The Merritt Dance Society (MDS) is an incorporated nonprofit organization regulated by the Societies Act of British Columbia. Its purpose is to provide funding support for high-quality dance instruction at Love To Dance Academy.

Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) is held each fall, and all members are invited to attend. Each registered dancer, along with one parent, guardian, or caregiver, automatically becomes a member of the Merritt Dance Society. During the AGM, an elected board of directors is voted in to guide the society and support Love To Dance Academy’s programs and activities throughout the year.

Like most nonprofits, MDS thrives on the strength of its volunteers. We rely on parents, guardians, and caregivers to share their time, skills, and energy to keep our studio running smoothly and to help our students flourish. Your involvement—whether big or small—plays a vital role in ensuring our community continues to grow and thrive.

Our Board of Directors

The Merritt Dance Society (MDS) board is made up entirely of volunteers dedicated to supporting Love To Dance Academy. Board members play a key role in ensuring the society and studio run smoothly and sustainably. Their responsibilities include:

  • Promoting membership in the society

  • Maintaining and protecting society assets and property

  • Financing society operations and raising funds for LTDA programs

  • Managing all accounts and financial records

  • Paying expenses for operating and managing the studio

  • Hiring society employees, including the artistic director and dance instructors

  • Regulating employees’ duties and setting salaries

  • Establishing policies, rules, and regulations for the society

  • Collaborating with the artistic director to develop policies specific to the studio

  • Supporting instructors and the artistic director with organizational tasks, such as concert preparation and marketing campaigns

The composition of the board may change according to the society bylaws. Currently, the Executive Board includes the President, Treasurer, and Secretary. Additional elected directors support tasks such as public relations, communication with families, and grant application writing.

 

Importance of Volunteering

Volunteer hours are essential to the success of Love To Dance Academy and the Merritt Dance Society. Volunteers may assist with a variety of tasks, including:

  • Helping with costumes

  • Assisting at dress rehearsals or performances

  • Building props

  • Distributing posters or flyers

  • Staffing booths at community events

  • Cleaning and general studio upkeep

  • Snow shoveling

  • Fundraising activities

As a nonprofit organization, the Merritt Dance Society works to keep costs as low as possible for students and their families. LTDA relies on volunteers to help achieve its mission and provide a high-quality dance experience.

We encourage families to share their talents and time! There are many ways to contribute, and we welcome new ideas from parents, guardians, and caregivers on how you can support the studio and our dancers.