Dancing with a purpose

At Wonderful Citrus Mexico, we know that keeping our bodies moving is an excellent way to stay in good shape. However, for some, staying active is easier said than done. So, Wonderful Philanthropy Mexico and Wonderful Citrus Mexico employees joined with Fundación Down Angeles del Mundo, A.C. to create "Zumbatón” – a fitness class disguised as a dance – for children and adults with Down syndrome. Wonderful Philanthropy Mexico was the official sponsor, and Wonderful Citrus Mexico helped organize the event and held it inside the packing house.

Fundación Down Angeles del Mundo, A.C., a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support and raise awareness for individuals with Down syndrome, strongly believes that those living with the syndrome can be incorporated into the mainstream. They just need the guidance. By focusing on teaching how to control one’s body, the organization creates the building blocks to engage in a wide variety of physical activities. In fact, the Fundación Down Angeles del Mundo, A.C. swimming team are national champions, akin to Special Olympics gold medalists.

All told, 70 Wonderful Citrus Mexico employees and 11 adults and children with Down syndrome participated in the one-hour dance class event. A donation from Wonderful Philanthropy Mexico to Fundación Down Angeles del Mundo, A.C. was made for each dancer who completed the full dancing hour, and additionally, Wonderful Philanthropy Mexico doubled those donations.

“We danced together and shared an activity that we all like,” said Alan, a Wonderful Citrus Mexico employee. “I think that the only disability is a bad attitude.”

Initially a bit timid about how to interact with their fellow dancers, Wonderful Citrus Mexico employees quickly learned they themselves were the ones in need of assistance. Some of the dancers were more fit and coordinated, a helpful reminder that being different certainly doesn’t equate to inability.

Despite it being an unexpectedly hot day, nearly every participant made it through the hour, engaging in all sorts of movements and exercises designed to help develop body control. In total, $1,500 U.S. was raised for Fundación Down Angeles del Mundo, A.C., though perhaps most important, were the emotional connections made.  

“Zumbatón allows us to live together,” said Fundación Down Angeles del Mundo, A.C. founder Maritza.