OUR MISSION
Taplife Hero Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to producing, creating, and promoting positive, thoughtful, and insightful opportunities for people to experience tap dance. Our mission is to preserve, celebrate, and advance the rich legacy of tap dance as a uniquely American art form, deeply rooted in American history and cultural expression. We are committed to cultivating a vibrant community where dancers of all backgrounds can connect, learn, and thrive.
GRANTS & COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Taplife Hero Foundation's work has been made possible in part through the generous support of:
- Resorts World Gives, $1,500 Sponsorship, 2026
- 4Imprint, One by One, 2025
- Flushing Town Hall, Queens Community Arts Grant, 2025
- NYFA – Queens Arts Fund, Arts Access Grant, 2025
- Flushing Town Hall, Queens Community Arts Grant, 2024
- NYFA – Queens Arts Fund, Arts Access Grant, 2024
- Discretionary Funds Award (business equipment purchase), NYC Mayor's Office of Contract Services, Dec 2021
- Arts Access Grant & Community Arts Grant (National Tap Dance Day Celebration support), Queens Council on the Arts, May 2020
- Su-Casa Grant (tap dance program at a Rockaway, NY senior center), Queens Council on the Arts, Jan 2020
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Anthony Lo Cascio, Founder & Executive Director
As Artistic Director of Taplife Company, Anthony has produced original shows and music videos while paying it forward to tap dancers and musicians throughout his career. For over 30 years, he has mentored students and recently expanded accessibility through the Taplife Remote Mentorship program. As Founder and Executive Director of Taplife Hero Foundation, Anthony champions tap culture and has secured grant funding to support community engagement and programming.
Bob Lo Cascio, Board Chair
Born and raised in Brooklyn before moving to Queens, Bob eventually settled in Howard Beach with his wife, Nancy, to raise their family. A longtime member of the Kiwanis Club, he has served as President, Vice President, and Board Member. He co-owned and operated several transportation and logistics companies until his retirement in 2012.
Nancy Lo Cascio, Secretary
Nancy grew up in Manhattan before settling in Queens, NY, and now resides in North Carolina. She brings professional experience as a retired Attendance Administrator for St. Francis Prep and, earlier in her career, as a bank teller — contributing organization and precision to the Foundation's operations.
Dr. Rob Gucciardo, Board Member
A lifelong resident of Queens, NY, Dr. Rob has owned Gucciardo Specific Chiropractic and Natural Health Center for over 26 years. He also serves as Anthony's personal chiropractor and nutritionist, and contributed the foreword and additional insight to Anthony's book, Food As A Prescription.
Heather Franzese, Board Member
Based in Queens, NY, Heather is a licensed poker dealer for charity events and works within the ticket brokering industry — bringing a distinctive blend of hospitality, event coordination, and business expertise to the board.
