MISSION STATEMENT

ODTF is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded by Rhonda Groves, a dedicated baton twirling enthusiast. Ms. Groves embarked on her journey into baton twirling at the tender age of 7, and continued until she reached 18. While there was a hiatus in her involvement with twirling until her mid-thirties, her passion for the sport never waned. In 2002 she began volunteering with a baton organization in Richmond, VA taking on the responsibilities of fundraising coordinator and website developer. In 2004, she transitioned into coaching, and by 2013, she had earned the prestigious title of National Baton Twirling Association Judge. her passion for baton twirling is unwavering, and she tirelessly promotes the sport whenever and wherever she can.

Baton Twirling has evolved into a refined art sport that extends beyond the image of sequined costumes and parade marches . While numerous baton twirling groups thrive worldwide, the presence of such organizations in Virginia is currently lacking. ODTF is committed to changing this landscape.  

Our primary objective is to provide financial support to non-profit baton twirling organizations, enabling them to host contests, offer awards, engage qualified judges, cover hotel accommodations, travel expenses and provide scholarship prizes, among other essential resources. By doing so, we aim to empower contest directors to keep registration fees affordable for contestants and their parents, thereby facilitating greater participation and competition opportunities. Qualified non-profit baton organizations may also employ these funds to facilitate their attendance a the National Baton Twirling Championships held at Notre Dame University annually, alleviating financial burdens on parents.
 

Participating in a baton twirling group is akin to becoming part of a second family, offering numerous benefits such as:

• Building character
• Developing teamwork skills
• Enhancing interview skills
• Fostering confidence
• Setting and achieving goals
• Cultivating time management abilities
• Promoting physical fitness
• Providing stress relief
• Improving coordination
• Encouraging socialization

Many individuals who embark on their baton twirling journey at a young age and continue through high school find themselves well-prepared for higher education. They often secure scholarships for their twirling prowess, excel academically in major universities, and subsequently embark on successful careers in diverse fields such as Sports Medicine, Nursing, Education, Management, Pharmacology, Veterinary Medicine, Law, Dance Choreography, and more. Your support for ODTF will contribute to the growth and success of baton twirlers and the positive impact they can make in various professional fields.