Katie Parton Memorial Dance Fund

The Katie Parton Memorial Dance Fund provides financial support for individuals with Down syndrome, cognitive, or physical disabilities who are interested in pursuing dance education. The grant was established to honor Katie Parton's memory and her passion for inclusive dance opportunities. Administered by the Wyoming Community Foundation, this funding opportunity exists to reduce barriers to dance education and participation for a broad array of eligible applicants, especially in underserved or specific geographic regions. This grant supports a wide range of dance-related expenses. Applicants may request tuition assistance for dance classes, as well as financial support for associated costs such as costumes, shoes, specialized equipment, and travel stipends. Any cost directly linked to dance training or participation may be considered eligible under this grant, which is notable for its flexibility and commitment to ensuring full participation in dance activities for people with disabilities. Eligibility for this grant is geographically limited to individuals or organizations serving Albany, Converse, Natrona, or Sweetwater counties in Wyoming. Priority is given to applicants with Down syndrome or those who experience cognitive or physical disabilities, regardless of age. Additionally, the fund is available to individuals age 18 or younger, regardless of ability, who demonstrate financial need for assistance with dance education. The grant cycle opens annually on July 15 and closes on August 31. Applications must be submitted within this window to be considered. There is no mention of a pre-application process or required letter of intent. The grant is not offered on a rolling basis and does not accept applications outside the stated timeframe. Given the annual nature of the cycle, applicants can anticipate recurring opportunities each year if funding remains available. While specific evaluation criteria are not disclosed in the provided information, the priorities listed—focused on disability inclusion and financial need—are likely to guide funding decisions. Interested applicants with questions about the application process or their eligibility are encouraged to contact the designated grant manager via email at Benk@wycf.org. Overall, the Katie Parton Memorial Dance Fund represents a targeted, inclusive funding stream designed to make dance accessible to individuals who may otherwise be excluded due to financial or physical barriers. Its localized scope and annual cycle make it a vital resource for communities within the eligible Wyoming counties.