Today we’d like to introduce you to Veronica Rodriguez-Harris
Hi Veronica, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
J.A.D.A. Which is where the acronym, Just A Dancing Angel was created from My daughter Jada Harris who was taken from me on 8/19/2020 by a drunk driver, high on meth going the wrong way on the highway in a stolen vehicle. She only 19 years old and had her whole life ahead of her. She was very ambitious and a great person to many who knew her. She smile could brighten any room up. Although there is so much speculation about what was reported on what exactly happened that frightful night. I have to find strength to keep going not only for my other two kids but to stay in a more positive light for her and to keep her name and legacy alive.
The memory of my daughter, Jada, and her passion and choreographing performances fills my heart with joy. In her honor, I am dedicated to using this platform to reunite girls who share a love for dance and to support mothers who are nurturing their daughters with similar aspirations. I believe that by sharing Jada’s story and the impact she made as a choreographer in the dance world, we can inspire and empower young girls to embrace their love for dance and pursue their dreams boldly just as Jada did the night her life was taken from her. She was actually on her way home from dance tryouts at ASU in Montgomery.
I have witnessed the transformative power of dance in my daughter’s life. The passion for dance has not only brought her joy and purpose but has also inspired me to give back to the youth in our community. Through the platform of a nonprofit organization, I envision bringing together the dance community, especially young girls and their mothers, to foster unity and empowerment. Maybe I can help another single mom with daughters who needs that financial support or a local dance team get prepared for competition. See this was Jada’s passion and she lived breath it and embodied it up until the day she was taken away from us.
I’m just a grieving mom far from the perfect parent. And even though there are so many sleepless nights that I have replaying everything I could’ve done differently thinking maybe she would still be here with me. I have to live with that every day. So I celebrate Jada’s life and ensure her spirit continues to inspire others.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our supporters who have generously contributed to J.A.D.A. Your donations mean more to us than words can express. Although our organization is still in its early stages and we’re working to secure more sponsors and corporate partners, your support has been invaluable. We remain hopeful and confident that, as we continue to grow and increase our visibility, additional support will come. Thank you for being a crucial part of our journey and for helping us honor Jada’s legacy in such a meaningful way.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
What sets J.A.D.A. apart is our unique focus as a nonprofit dance organization dedicated to nurturing youth in their creative pursuits. We strive to connect with other choreographers and dance professionals to enrich our community and give back to the next generation. I’m particularly proud of our first Annual Dance Camp this summer. Although we had seven dancers participate and there are areas for improvement, we laid a strong foundation for future camps. We’re excited to build on this experience and make next year’s event even better.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is creating dance routines with my sister and performing them for our family in our living room. I like to believe that this early love for dance sparked my passion and was passed down to Jada, allowing her to embrace and excel in her own dance journey. It’s a cherished memory that reminds me of the joy and connection dance has brought to our lives.
Pricing:
- we are always accepting donations by visiting our website.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/j.a.d.a.__
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/4JD5nrjVWc7JfDH4/
Image Credits
Just A Dancing Angel nonprofit board members:
Vevica Harris (sis),Taylor Jackson, Tyundra Harris, Itzanami Salinas, Alexa Isaac
& Jada’s best friend Tionne Warren
