Mission, Goals, Standards & Values


Moves & Grooves, Inc. is a non-profit organization that is committed to enhancing the lives of at-risk youth through arts and education within the Metro Nashville area.

Our Mission, is to enhance the academic achievement of children through creative arts programs.

Our Vision, is for Moves & Grooves to serve as the premier center of performing arts for at-risk youth in the Metropolitan Nashville area.

Our Purpose, is to develop youth who are not only passionate about their communities, but are also connected and committed to a lifestyle of continuous learning, unwavering moral character, solid core values and exceptional standards.


Our Goals & Accomplishments

Since our founding in 2002, Moves and Grooves, Inc. has elevated student outcomes using the arts and humanities. More than an after school program, we work with students, their families and teachers over a student's school career. By providing mentorship and guidance to students, we have seen amazing results in increased graduation rates and post-college career placements.

  • We serve over 250 students each year - that's more than a 1,600% increase since 2002.



  • We direct more than 80% of our funding into our programs.



  • 91% of our Middle School students say that Moves and Grooves provides safety, a positive challenge, and makes them want to learn more new things.



  • Our students burn between 330-488 calories per hour during dance classes, keeping them healthy and fit.



  • Our proven curriculum is fully STEAM aligned, using the Arts as a catalyst for success.



  • 96% of Moves and Grooves students are more interested in attending college and pursuing STEM careers since participating in our programs.



  • Our students have used their STEAM enhanced education to be the first in their family to graduate from college, become pilots, judges and more.


    • Our Standards

    Moves & Grooves, Inc's. standards are founded upon the principles of confidence and courtesy. Confidence because believing in yourself is greater than anything and courtesy because showing respect towards others reflects one’s civility.

    Standard #1: In Moves & Grooves we greet each other everyday with a smile and a handshake to strengthen the relationship between us.
    Standard #2: In Moves & Grooves we are considerate of those in need and are always willing to lend a helping hand.
    Standard #3: In Moves & Grooves we love our brothers and sisters and are respectful in everything we say and do.
    Standard #4: In Moves & Grooves we are striving to become a positive example to our community as well as the world.
    Standard #5: In Moves & Grooves we are beautiful in our own way and we each offer a gift that is unique.
    Standard #6: In Moves & Grooves we realize that life is a challenge, but with the mindset to persevere we can conquer anything.



    Core Values

    Arts - Encouraging youth to be creative and use various forms of art as a positive outlet.

    Education - Inspiring youth to excel in school.

    Health - promoting positive health by providing nutritious snacks and daily physical activity.

    Diversity - Developing young people to take pride in their own culture while holding the culture of all people in high regard.

    Service - Creating opportunities for youth to "give back" in their neighborhoods and beyond.

    Leadership - Empowering youth to become self-reliant and independent citizens.