Membership Information
Our membership runs on an annual loop from October 1 to September 30. Joining the SHDA connects you with a passionate cultural community and unlocks a number of benefits for your dancer.
Why join the SHDA?
When you become a member, you get direct access to a number of benefits designed to support your dancer’s journey:
- Subsidized Fees: Enjoy reduced entry fees for local competitions and specialized workshops.
- Scholarships & Bursaries: Members in good standing are eligible to apply for annual SHDA scholarships.
- Community Performance: Dancers have the exciting opportunity to participate in local "dance-outs".
- Exclusive Access: Receive priority or exclusive registration for elite training, events, and professional resources.
- A Voice in the Community: Full members receive one vote per membership on association matters at General Meetings and AGMs.
Membership Types
We offer four distinct categories of membership to fit your family’s needs:
Full Membership
- Eligibility: Applies to designated dancers (ages 17 and under) along with one parent/guardian, OR individual dancers aged 18 and over.
- Benefits: Includes full voting rights, scholarship eligibility, fee subsidies, and dance-out access.
- Expectations: Members are expected to fulfill volunteer roles at competitions, fundraising, and cultural events, and provide one competition raffle prize during the year.
Recreational Membership
- Eligibility: Open to any non-competing dancers, former dancers, or community members.
- Benefits: Eligible to participate in membership events, including community dance-outs.
- Expectations: May be called upon to volunteer at competitions, fundraising, or cultural events throughout the year.
- Note: Does not include voting rights or subsidized fees for competitions and workshops.
Non-Fundraising Teacher Membership
- Eligibility: Open to local teachers of SHDA members or non-practicing teachers who hold at least an Associate Highland qualification (actively competing teachers must take out a Full Membership).
- Benefits: Entitled to attend meetings, serve on sub-committees, and holds one vote.
- Note: Cannot chair a major committee or serve on the Executive Board.
Honorary Life Membership
- Eligibility: Restricted to individuals formally nominated and approved by the association in recognition of outstanding, long-term service to the SHDA.
- Benefits: Entitled to one vote at all meetings and full rights to serve on committees or the Board without paying annual membership fees or dues.
Keeping your Membership In "Good Standing"
To maintain access to subsidies, scholarships, and voting rights, members must fulfill three simple annual requirements:
- 1. Pay current membership dues at the start of the season.
- 2. Fulfill membership expectations as set by the Board.
Important Note:
Membership is a 1-year commitment. Fees are strictly non-refundable in the event that a member moves away, quits, or is unable to dance due to injury or illness.
Ready to Join the SHDA family?
Registration is quick and easy! Click the link below to fill out your form and secure your spot for the upcoming season.