Walking for the missing peace

by Shana Simmons

Jamie, Shana, Emily and Carmella (dancers in The Missing Peace) volunteering at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Out of the Darkness Walk - Pittsburgh - 8/26/2017

---

As part of The Missing Peace process, dancers and choreographers have donated their time towards outside organization’s fundraising walks to help spread awareness and raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. This show isn’t just about the choreography.... it’s about making an impact in our communities.

"As I stood at the start line for the Alzheimer's Association walk, I couldn't help but reflect how many people have been affected by both Alzheimer's disease and suicide. It was overwhelming to see the masses that were passing me and remember how many people walked alongside me during the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention walk. This was THOUSANDS of people and in Pittsburgh alone. It isn't often that we are united on such a large scale and the feeling is overwhelming. To try to put into words how these mental health conditions impact so many people and break down lives is difficult. This is why we dance. It's why dancers are compelled to move and we, as choreographers, are compelled to create. I believe The Missing Peace can help bridge the gap between these challenging feelings and what to say about them. I believe The Missing Peace will bring hope to those struggling through these difficult situations. I am excited to share and unite people through The Missing Peace." --Shana Simmons

"Taking our commitment to these causes from the studios to the streets of Pittsburgh has been a deeply moving experience.  I am incredibly grateful that the dancers have taken the passion we have for these issues to heart and that they have been so willing to get involved."  --Brady Sanders

Sara, Carmella, Jamie, Brady, Shana, Emily and JoAnna (dancers in The Missing Peace) volunteering at the Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's - Pittsburgh - 11/4/2017

"Seeing the joy in her face although she was battling this terrible disease (Alzheimer's) gave me hope that continuing on and living each day to the best of our ability is completely possible." --reflection by Carmella Cuomo, in response to interactions with a woman at the Alzheimer's walk that had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's

---

---