The NFO Mentoring Project is a program that supports the work and goals of folk dance communities in the U.S., providing folk dancers access to information that supports their efforts to maintain and grow their communities.

Here’s what we’re working on!

“Exploring Teaching Strategies for Folk Dance” will be sponsored by The Mentoring Project in conjunction with the NFO F.O.L.K. Chat program on November 1, 2025 at 10 a.m. Pacific time. This virtual presentation will explore folk dance teaching methods that support both experienced and emerging teachers. The panel discussion will include noted folk dance educators France Bourque-Moreau, Bruce Hamilton, and Sue Hulsether. See Zoom link on NFO F.O.L.K. Chats page.

The committee invites the public to suggest discussion topics or request more information (moc.liamg@puorGgnirotneM.OFN).

Passing the folk dance torch…

Apply to be a mentor or mentee. Choose your application to start the process.

Teachers Teaching Each Other

Want to know more about the following kinds of topics?

Let us know!

  • Starting a club or class
  • Operating & maintaining a club
  • Forming a 501(c)(3)
  • Publicizing your events
  • Using virtual platforms
  • And more!

Teaching Resources

We’re updating the NFO’s library of teaching materials.
Have suggestions? Email us!

Steering Committee

Roo Lester
“The Mentoring Project and my participation as a mentor gives me the opportunity to share and facilitate the joy of the dance of life with others.”
Mady Newfield
“One of the most important contributions we can make as teachers is to instill not only the joy of the subject but how best to pass it on, so that the learning and enjoyment can continue beyond us. Mentoring is about that.”
(photo by Elliot Kuhner)
Stacy Rose
“Sometimes I say while teaching a dance, “Take hands and share the knowledge.” To me, mentoring is another form of taking hands to share knowledge.”
Loui Tucker
“My goal, both as a member of The Mentoring Project and as a mentor, is to ensure that dancing in the community continues to thrive into the future.”
(photo by Elliot Kuhner)
Marguerite Fishman
“Learning to teach dance is a multi-faceted journey that brings countless challenges and abundant riches. Having a mentor as your experienced and supportive guide enables you to take the next steps with confidence and clarity.”
Riki Adivi
“The mentoring program motivates and assists dancers in becoming more engaged or in teaching (folk) dancing. A dancer who transitions to an instructor can discover a new purpose and fulfillment in life. I believe that the mentoring project is crucial in keeping international folk dancing alive and expanding our community.”

Advisory Members

Gigi Jensen
Cricket Rayburn
Adony Beniares