The Los Angeles Rams Cheerleaders are hosting virtual dance classes and workout sessions for students, families and supporters of "A Place Called Home." The virtual sessions are streamed live on Instagram and provide APCH's account followers the opportunity to learn dance choreography and exercise routines from Rams Cheerleaders. Each session also concludes with a Q & A session. The first virtual class took place on Friday, May 1 and engaged nearly 200 viewers.

"Dance allows us to move and express ourselves in ways words cannot," said Rams Cheerleader Yalissa C. to a virtual audience. "No matter what level, age, or gender you are, dance brings people together."

During an unprecedented time when studios, gyms, parks and other recreational spaces are closed to the public to reduce the transmissions of COVID-19, many have been forced to seek alternative exercise methods. The Rams Cheerleaders want to provide a unique solution that was easily accessible to their community.

"Being able to provide a healthy outlet for others is important during times like this," said Yalissa. "What makes it even better is how easily accessible it is to tune in. We're fortunate to live in a world where technology has advanced so much that we can reach people virtually and be there to support them."

The virtual sessions create an online environment that provides positive social engagement and team camaraderie through dance and exercise.

"Even though the current circumstances we're in are not ideal, participating in this allows us to feel a part of something bigger," said Cheerleader Michelle H. "It was comforting to know that individuals throughout our community want to tune in to dance and workout with us. Movement is so important in our daily lives, especially now when people's routines have dramatically changed. I believe we're able to bring them joy by providing a chance to get up and move, have fun and remind them that we will come out of this stronger as one."

While APCH offers dance instruction as part of its Arts and Creative Expression program, these virtual sessions are offering all APCH Instagram account followers the chance to learn modified routines that the Rams Cheerleaders perform on gamedays.

"Our supporters are so excited to dance with the Rams Cheerleaders, especially the members of our own dance classes," said Ivys DeLeon, APCH Dance Instructor. "They enjoy learning the choreography and could not be more satisfied with this fun dance opportunity. We're very thankful to the Rams Cheerleaders!"

A Place Called Home provides a safe, nurturing environment with proven programs in arts, education and wellness for young people in South Central Los Angeles to help them improve their economic conditions and develop healthy, fulfilling and purposeful lives.

In 2018, the Rams and the Ed Block Courage Foundation named A Place Called Home the team's official "Courage House" and dedicated their facility to the Courage House National Support Network for Kids. Since moving back home to Los Angeles, Rams players and staff have hosted financial literacy workshops at A Place Called Home, volunteered for their holiday meal services, and provided APCH students and volunteers with special Training Camp experiences and tickets to Rams home games.

For fans and supporters who would like more information about when virtual dance sessions will take place and how to tune in, please visit A Place Called Home's Instagram account (@apch2830).