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Meet Your Neighbor: Jami Artiga
The magic of dance has been felt around the globe for centuries. Think back to when you were a child or when you took your own children to see their first Nutcracker performance. The wonder and excitement is relived as the young girl, Clara, experiences the enchanting dance of the Sugarplum Fairy after her beloved Nutcracker toy comes to life. Jami Artiga of 89123 has dedicated her life to recreating the magic of dance by using her own gifts as a dancer, and teaching children about self-expression through the art. Through The Dance Zone, a local school that she founded with fellow dance enthusiast and partner Kaydee Francis, Artiga harnesses her passion to help others in the community with the power of dance.
The lifelong resident has helped to ensure that The Dance Zone and its students have been associated with several charitable outreach organizations such as Dancer’s Responding to Aids, Golden Rainbow, Josh Steven’s Foundation, Ragtag Entertainment, NYCDA’s College Scholarship Foundation and the Lindsay Bennett Foundation. They’ve also been involved with the NF Hope’s annual concert and supported drives for Three Square and Toys for Tots. The Dance Zone also provides practice space to dancer’s performing in benefits. Recently they’ve begun a partnership with After School All-Stars, a group that provides comprehensive after school programs to keep kids safe and help them to succeed in school and in life. Artiga and the group have been holding dancewear costume drives and providing other supplies for All-Star after school dance programs. Jami Artiga talks about her love of dance, making a difference and sharing a bit of the magic with others around the community.
How did you begin using dance as a way of helping others?
“I started teaching and performing before I was 18. I have always loved dance and children. I worked professionally as a dancer anywhere I could until I had my second child. After he was born I turned to teaching dance as my career choice. I love sharing all I have learned in dance and in life with my students. Doing performances and benefits for non-profit organizations always gives me such a thrill. Many parents of our students are invested in an organization and also ask us to be a part. We love to help whenever we can.”
What do you enjoy most about performing for non-profits?
“It brings dancers and entertainers from all around to get together for a cause. We try to get involved with organizations as much as possible. It allows our dancers who have been given this gift to share with people who need something special, or even to help raise money for charities.”
Why do you feel it is so important to give back to the community?
“There is so much more than what is right in front of us. Being a small business we do not always have the money to give, but we have other resources at times that are valuable to others.”
What do you enjoy when you’re not in dance mode?
“When I am not at a dance competition, convention or fundraising event, you’ll find me at home or a family member’s home. I’m very lucky to have my sisters and mother here in Vegas as well. I spend as much free time as I can with my family. I enjoy sitting and chatting with my kids and husband. My kids don’t always love me invading their space but it makes me re-connect with what is truly important.”
Aside from dance and family, do you have any other passions?
“I’m passionate about children growing up happy and healthy. Dance is amazing for your mind and body but I’m also passionate about life and making the most of what you have.”
