American Harlequin is always ready and willing to “lend a hand.” With corporate social responsibility at the cornerstone of its company and a strong desire to make an impact in communities across the country, this world leader in floors for the performing arts immediately jumped on board when presented with the opportunity to make a charitable contribution to NBC’s “TODAY” host Al Roker’s annual “Lend A Hand” project.

Today, “Lend A Hand” and Harlequin surprised the well-deserving staff of the New Ballet Ensemble – an organization grounded in its commitment to sharing the art and beauty of dance with passionate individuals who cannot afford formal instruction – in Memphis, Tenn., with a much-needed studio overhaul. The New Ballet Ensemble’s amazement didn’t end there either! Upon the completion of the studio’s renovation, Al Roker received a hip-hop lesson from the talented performers on the donated flooring from Harlequin.

Harlequin’s charitable contributions to the New Ballet Ensemble not only included its Liberty™ sprung dance floor panels and Harlequin Studio™ vinyl dance floor, but also mirrors and ballet barres. These donations will further enhance the dance experience afforded by this bridge-building arts training organization to its members where the common denominator is excellence and innovation in dance.

To see Al Roker surprising the New Ballet Ensemble click here. For further information about these fine Harlequin products, simply click on the image.

In its ninth consecutive year, "Lend A Hand" continues its mission to help small charities across the country that work toward improving conditions in their communities. Throughout his trip, Roker will make stops in San Francisco, Calif., Bozeman, Mont., Des Moines, Iowa, Rye, N.H. and Memphis, Tenn.

June 24, 2010