Qorvis and Dance Institute of Washington Announce New Pro Bono Partnership

WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Qorvis Communications, one of the fast-growing integrated communications firms in the U.S., today announced a new pro bono partnership with The Dance Institute of Washington (DIW). DIW is a nonprofit organization offering creative movement and dance instruction to underserved youth in Washington, D.C. Qorvis will advise DIW in the development of communications and events strategies.

"Qorvis has a long tradition of giving back to the community through pro bono client engagements and philanthropic support for causes we hold close," said Michael Petruzzello, Qorvis founder and managing partner. "We are grateful to be able to continue this commitment through our work with DIW."

Fabian Barnes established the DIW in 1987 after a 15-year career as a soloist with the Dance Theatre of Harlem. His goal was to provide the youth of Washington, D.C. – especially those at risk – with opportunities to develop talent, confidence, and discipline through dance and artistic education. Since its inception, DIW has become one of D.C.'s largest African-American arts organizations and a cultural resource for the larger community.

"We are delighted to have Qorvis join us in extending our reach and raising our profile within our community and beyond," said Barnes. "Over the years, thousands of youth have gained a new perspective on life and the drive for excellence through DIW's dance programs. We can't wait to work with Qorvis to help spread this message further."

Along with high-quality dance education, DIW offers Positive Directions Through Dance (PDTD), an outreach program that offers training in financial literacy and obesity prevention to help at-risk youth succeed in life. PDTD is a free dance and youth development program for teenagers, preteens and preschoolers from underserved neighborhoods in the District of Columbia.

Recognized for his outstanding work in the community by Oprah, Washingtonian magazine, and countless dance publications and organizations, Barnes hopes that DIW will continue to grow as a community-based, cultural resource and reach many more at-risk youth most in need of enrichment programs. Together, DIW and Qorvis will work to expand the visibility of the Dance Institute in the Washington, D.C. community and nationwide.

About Qorvis Communications, LLC
Qorvis Communications is one of the nation's largest independent, integrated communications firms. Formed in August 2000, Qorvis provides its clients with expertise in the areas of public and media relations, advertising, public affairs, investor relations and financial services communications, grassroots campaigns, Internet-based campaigns, social media strategies, and research and opinion surveys. For more information, visit www.qorvis.com, contact [email protected] or follow us on Twitter: @qorvis.

SOURCE Qorvis Communications