All of the Above Hip Hop Academy

- 303 S Washington Square, Lansing, MI 48933

In the vibrant heart of downtown Lansing, Michigan, a unique non-profit organization is making a profound impact on the community. All of the Above Hip Hop Academy is not just a place to learn dance; it is a cultural resource that uses the five elements of Hip Hop—breaking, emceeing (rapping), DJing, graffiti art, and knowledge—to mentor and develop young leaders. Founded by hip-hop artist and educator Ozay Moore, the academy serves as a beacon of creativity, love, and community. It operates on the principle that hip-hop is a powerful tool for positive social change and personal growth, offering a safe and inspiring space for youth to express themselves, build skills, and find their voice. For local families in the Greater Lansing area, this academy presents a unique alternative to traditional after-school programs, providing a curriculum that is both culturally relevant and deeply enriching. The mission is clear: to mentor youth, support artistic expression, and serve the community as a hip-hop cultural resource, all for the purpose of youth development. As a volunteer noted in a review, this organization is "transforming this city one child at a time," a testament to its profound and positive influence on the lives of its participants.

Unlike many other arts organizations, All of the Above Hip Hop Academy provides its programming free to youth, a commitment made possible through community partnerships and grants. This dedication to accessibility ensures that financial barriers do not prevent young people from engaging with this powerful culture. The academy's approach is holistic, aiming to meet the socio-emotional, creative, and communal needs of the city's youth. By connecting students with respected artists and practitioners as mentors, the academy helps to build a self-sustained talent pool and provides a strong foundation for both artistic and personal success. The founder's vision was to create an ecosystem where artists could develop their craft and find camaraderie, a vision that has grown into a public-facing headquarters where programs for all ages, workshops, and events are held. It is a place where every child can feel a sense of belonging and community, which is fundamental to the organization's success and its role as a vital part of the Lansing community.

All of the Above Hip Hop Academy is centrally located in downtown Lansing at 303 S Washington Square, Lansing, MI 48933, USA. This prime location places it at the heart of the capital city's cultural and commercial district, making it easily accessible for families and individuals from all over the Lansing area. The academy recently moved into this permanent home, a significant milestone that allows them to centralize their programming and become a true hub for the community. The studio is committed to being an accessible space for all. It features a wheelchair-accessible car park, which is a key feature in ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility, can comfortably access the facility. The location on Washington Square is also easily reachable by public transport and is a convenient walk from many other downtown locations, further enhancing its accessibility for local users. The central address strengthens its role as a community gathering place, making it a visible and welcoming presence in Lansing's urban landscape.

All of the Above Hip Hop Academy offers a diverse range of programs and classes, all rooted in the core elements of Hip Hop culture. The curriculum is designed to be engaging, educational, and empowering, providing youth with practical skills and creative outlets. The programs are structured to offer both foundational knowledge and advanced training in specific disciplines, all led by industry veterans and respected artists in their crafts. The academy's classes and workshops are often free to the public, removing a major barrier to participation.

• Breaking: Classes like "Breaking 101" teach the history, philosophy, techniques, and movements of breaking, more commonly known as breakdancing.
• B.A.R.S. (Beats and Rhymes Sessions): A program focused on the art of emceeing, helping students with lyric writing, rhyme skills, and public speaking.
• DJing Classes: Students learn to use DJ controllers and other technology to master the art of DJing, with opportunities to perform at local events.
• Graffiti Art: A program in partnership with Muralmatics that provides a hands-on experience in learning the fundamental techniques of graffiti art.
• AYO (All Youth Organized): A young adults mentoring program that provides a space for older students to develop their leadership and organizational skills.
• Workshops and Performance Opportunities: The academy hosts workshops and events that allow students to showcase their talents and share what they have learned with the community at large.

What makes All of the Above Hip Hop Academy truly special is its unique mission and community-focused approach. It is not a for-profit business; it is a non-profit organization dedicated to youth development and cultural preservation. This distinction is crucial and is reflected in every aspect of its operation. The academy stands out for its deep-rooted connection to the Lansing community and its commitment to making its programs accessible to all.

• Non-Profit Mission: The organization's core purpose is to mentor youth and serve the community, which drives every decision and program offering.
• Free Programming: Thanks to community support and partnerships, a lot of the programming is offered at no cost to participants, ensuring inclusivity and access for all.
• Good for Kids: The academy is specifically designed to be a positive and empowering space for children, helping them develop valuable skills and self-confidence.
• Experienced Mentors: Students are taught by seasoned artists, educators, and community advocates who are passionate about their craft and mentoring the next generation.
• Holistic Approach: The curriculum goes beyond just dance or music, incorporating elements of history, community engagement, and personal development.
• Strong Community Connections: The academy has partnered with local businesses and organizations to provide students with real-world performance opportunities and resources.
• Positive Environment: As highlighted in the customer review, the academy fosters a sense of "creativity, love, and sense of community" that is palpable to anyone who walks through the door.

For more information about programs, volunteering, or donating, you can contact All of the Above Hip Hop Academy directly.

Address: 303 S Washington Square, Lansing, MI 48933, USA

Phone: (517) 920-9274

For Lansing-area residents seeking more than just a dance class or a music lesson, All of the Above Hip Hop Academy offers an unparalleled opportunity for personal and community development. The choice to engage with this organization is a choice to support a mission that is actively "transforming this city one child at a time." Unlike many for-profit businesses, this academy's primary motivation is not financial; it is the empowerment of youth and the preservation of a positive cultural heritage. The fact that its programming is often free to participants makes it an invaluable resource for families in the region. The academy's commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment is consistently praised by those who are involved, including volunteers who witness the positive impact firsthand. The focus on all five elements of Hip Hop—from breaking to knowledge—provides a comprehensive education that goes far beyond simple artistic skill. Students learn to think critically, express themselves creatively, and become engaged members of their community. By choosing All of the Above Hip Hop Academy, you are not only choosing a program that produces talented artists but one that also builds confident, compassionate, and community-minded individuals. Its central downtown location and accessibility features make it easy for anyone to become part of this powerful and inspiring movement, cementing its place as a truly unique and worthwhile institution in the heart of Michigan.

All of the Above Hip Hop Academy

303 S Washington Square, Lansing, MI 48933, USA