CHICAGO (WLS) — The Bud Billiken Parade is the largest African American parade in the United States, drawing thousands of Chicagoans each year.

Among the many participants are hundreds of dance teams, who prepare tirelessly for their moment to shine on Martin Luther King Drive in Bronzeville.

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As part of our “Road to the Bud” series, ABC7 will take you inside the journey of one standout dance group as they prepare for the big day.

Dance Force Elite is a youth dance company with locations in Schiller Park, Chicago’s West and South sides and Hammond, Indiana.

Dance Force is one of the premiere acts at the Bud Billiken Parade with over 200 dancers belonging to the company.

Thirteen years back, Dance Force was established by Chicago native Matthew Thomas and quickly rose to prominence as a leading dance group in the city. Sadly, Matthew passed away last year, but he left a lasting impression on Chicago’s dance community and his team of young performers.

Although they experienced a great loss, Dance Force is thriving under the guidance of current President Kentrele Shipp. Shipp notes that the students have found solace in dance as a means of mourning their late mentor.

“It’s really art therapy,” Shipp said. “I’ve watched these kids this last year dance their hearts out. They’re soul out.”

Dance Force Elite is presently raising funds to cover their participation expenses for the Bud Billiken Parade. To contribute, please visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-dance-force-elites-parade-journey.