Question 1

Do I need to be an experienced dancer to join?

Accepted Answer

Volunteers serve as mentors combining dance instruction with literacy activities, and the program emphasizes passion for dance, working with kids, and community service over formal credentials.

Question 2

What does a typical session actually look like for a mentor?

Accepted Answer

Sessions open with group dance activities for children, then split into one-on-one reading and literacy mentorship. Younger children ("Seeds," ages 3-5) get an integrated one-hour dance-and-literacy class; older children ("Sprouts," ages 6-9) have a dance class followed by 45 minutes of one-on-one reading work with a mentor. Each semester ends with a final performance for family and friends.

Question 3

Where does the Berkeley chapter run its program?

Accepted Answer

The Berkeley chapter partners with the Berkeley Public Libraries and has expanded to two separate library branches. Past co-presidents noted the chapter was also beginning to present to Berkeley Public Library leadership directly.

Question 4

Is Ballet & Books only for students who want to dance, or does it welcome other academic interests?

Accepted Answer

The get-involved page explicitly notes that the mentor experience can combine a passion for dance with interests in community service, cognitive science, or early childhood education, making it open to students from a range of backgrounds.

Question 5

How do Berkeley members grow within the organization?

Accepted Answer

Members typically start as mentors and can take on leadership roles over time. The Berkeley chapter has co-presidents, and leaders can also connect with the national executive team. The chapter is registered as an official student organization on campus, which enables access to student funding and campus recruitment.

Ballet & Books at Berkeley