Dancing with the Atkinson Elementary stars

As a member of the Leadership Louisville Class of 2008, Humana VP of Strategic Consultancy, Jon Kerekes participated in a hands-on look at Jefferson County Public Schools. On his visit to Okolona Elementary School he saw local Rotary Club volunteers working with the students and was impressed to learn that their involvement with the school had dramatically improved students’ success.

Inspired by what he saw, Jon presented the idea to a Humana community outreach team seeking an opportunity to make a difference in our community. After researching several schools, Humana employees learned about Atkinson Elementary, one of five JCPS schools where students can participate in a national ballroom dancing program. One of the goals of the program is to end generational poverty by showing kids they can learn to do something that most people can't do.

Atkinson Elementary principal, Dr. Hensley, had a vision for the program, but he needed help. He wanted to hold an event showcasing what the student dancers’ had learned, reward them for participating in the program and recognize them as leaders in their school. And, he saw the event as a golden opportunity to draw parents, grandparents and guardians into the school.

The idea captured the imagination and hearts of the Humana team. They planned and executed a prom-like evening that included engraved invitations, a sit-down dinner, and ballroom dancing exhibition complete with donated formal attire and photos of each dancer. 50 Humana employees spent the day decorating, preparing food and serving 350 guests. The standing room event far exceeded Dr. Hensley’s expectations.

Parents said none of the kids had ever experienced a formal event like it. The dinner-dance was the first of what Humana employees foresee as a long-term relationship. The community outreach team continues to work with the students through the Every 1 Reads program and more ways to partner are in the works.

Leaders in Action is a web series featuring real-life examples of how Leadership Louisville Center programs connect people, places, and resources in our community. Got a great story you’d like to share? Contact Peggy Clements