The Academy of World Dance N Arts, which provides professional training to artists as young as two, takes pride in being able to offer the community a variety of involvement.

Participating in most of Poway's festivals and events, there's a good chance you may have already had the pleasure of witnessing the studio's dancers. Speaking with owner and artistic instructor Laura DiDonato, I was given the opportunity to learn more about the academy and its goals and programs both within the studio and here in the community. 

"We offer a large variety of cultural dance classes here at The Academy of World Dance N Arts," DiDonato said. "Almost any style you can think of. You name it, we do it."

From Brazilian Capoeira to Indian belly dancing, the studio has given all people of different ages the chance to dance for over 40 years. Offering classes on more than 100 different types of dance, the academy prides itself on providing the highest quality of training available.

Uniquely, nearly all of the academy's cultural dance instructors are actually native to the lands their styles originate from.

"We like to ensure that our instructors are actually from the countries that their styles are native to and have an immense knowledge about the dances they teach," DiDonato said. "This helps to authenticate the art and make sure that our students learn from the best."

Exhibiting performances and competitions at venues like Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm, the academy helps students gain the confidence and discipline they need to be successful.

But the academy does more than just offer entertainment services, DiDonato and her employees are hosting a food drive for the San Diego Food Bank this month to provide families in need with the food they so desperately require this holiday season. The academy is accepting nonperishable food items now through Dec. 22.

The food drive, which began this year, is being held at the academy's location on Poway Road. It is also open to the public — even those not directly involved are encouraged to participate and bring their donations.

"There will be receptacles within the studio, and outside it as well," DiDonato Said. "We're going to put a big red barrel right out front, that way anyone-not just those who are students-can come and bring food."

As a reward for any donor's generosity and kindness, the academy will also be conducting a raffle to win a gift certificate good toward $30 in dance lessons.

Participants in the drive are eligible to recive one raffle ticket per food item donated, as long an instructor is present.

If you have the opportunity, participate DiDonato encourages Powegians to help keep San Diego's hungry families smiling this holiday season.