A significant component of the USDA Youth Program is the establishment of the USDA Founders Memorial Youth Fund. The Fund will provide the needed resources to realize the full potential of our youth program. Over the past 10 to 15 years we have watched the continuing decline of square dancing. The loss of youth participation is a major contributing factor. By actively educating and seeking youth participation, we will be educating and recruiting parents as well.
Square dancing is a vital part of America's history and tradition.
Square dancing's roots in America go back to early settlers. Yet, how many of today's youth, or even adults, know of that history. America's youth should be taught that square dancing is more than a dance, it is a state of mind. Let them see how square dancing represents our country's warmth and unity by being a form of dance were almost every movement starts by extending your hand to another. They should see that square dancing is an on-going celebration of our country's roots.