Educate, Empower & Elevate
To create opportunities that inspire young people to succeed in school, prepare for college and careers, and lead in their communities.
About the Foundation
Purpose Beyond
The Stage.
The Stompdown Foundation was created to extend the power of culture, education and community into year-round opportunities for young people.
Our story
Built To
Open Doors.
The Stompdown Foundation was established in 2017 to educate, empower and elevate youth and communities through leadership development, educational opportunity, scholarship awareness, performing arts, financial literacy and community engagement.
The story began in Tallahassee in 2006. While at Florida A&M University, founder Djuan Ballinger saw that teams outside the Divine Nine did not have a place in a Homecoming Greek step show. He created the Non-Pan-Hellenic Greek Step Off to open the stage to more performers. That event grew into The Stompdown, welcoming elementary, middle school, high school, independent and Greek teams.
Founded in 2017, The Stompdown Foundation carries that spirit of access beyond the stage. It connects students and families with resources, mentorship, educational programming and leadership experiences.
Through strategic relationships with schools, colleges, businesses and community organizations, the Foundation works to create meaningful pathways for the next generation.
Opportunity Within Reach
A future where young people can access the guidance, resources and experiences needed to pursue their full potential.
Community-Powered Impact
We bring educators, mentors, families, businesses and civic partners together around youth success.
What guides us
Our Core
Commitments.
These commitments shape how the Foundation develops programs, builds partnerships and serves communities.
Access
Connecting young people and families to information, resources and opportunities.
Leadership
Helping youth develop confidence, character, responsibility and a service mindset.
Excellence
Encouraging academic achievement, preparation and high expectations.
Culture
Using the performing arts to build discipline, belonging and creative expression.
Partnership
Working collaboratively with schools, colleges, businesses and community organizations.
Stewardship
Operating with purpose, transparency and respect for every contribution.
Stand With
The Mission.
Help us expand educational, leadership and creative opportunities for youth.