by Donna Werking, Founder, Northern Arizona Social & Nicole Kennedy, Vice President of Development, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona
Dancing for the Stars left a mark on Prescott in April. Perhaps one of the most highly anticipated events, and certainly one of the most exciting, this inaugural event raised more than $130,000 for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona. Eleven local celebrities teamed up with local professional dancers for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to dance onstage before hundreds of guests. The event sold out months in advance, and included an elegant reception at the Hassayampa Inn, followed by an exclusive red carpet experience on Gurley Street, with live interviews by Prescott Media Center. Guests proceeded to the Elks Theatre, where they experienced an unforgettable show. The finale of the evening was a legendary after-party in the beautifully renovated Elks Performing Arts Center. Former board member Dee Toci called Dancing for the Stars, “the most exciting event (she’s) attended in over 30 years in Prescott.”
Celebrity dancers are selected for their connection with our community and willingness to step outside of their comfort zone for a cause greater than themselves. In addition to learning a dance routine, they are bringing together friends and sponsors alike in support of our local Boys & Girls Clubs. Celebrities compete for awards including People’s Choice and Best Friendraiser for securing the most votes and most funds raised, respectively.
“This proved to be an event unlike anything Prescott has ever seen,” said Nicole Kennedy, Vice President of Development for Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona. “Our community truly rallied around our inaugural dancers.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona recently held a reveal party to announce the 2018 Dancing for the Stars celebrities and professionals. Sponsors from the inaugural event were invited. Leza Lachapelle Dandos, original celebrity dancer and 2018 DFTS master of ceremonies, announced the dancer lineup. Teens from Boys & Girls Clubs’ multimedia program assisted with sound and video for the evening. 2018 celebrity dancers and their partners include:
- Kiona Bell (Branch Manager, Credit Union West) & Patrick Wilcox
- Michelle Fain (Trainer, Captain Crossfit) & Leo Gallegos
- Jamie Johnson (Owner, JEBCO construction) & Ron Howard
- Elena Sanwick (REALTOR®, Bloomtree Realty) & Daniel Garcia
- Donna Werking (Owner, Northern AZ Social) & Zach Leonard (Marina Rogova O’Brien Choreographer)
- Dr. Jason Campbell (Owner/Dentist, Pro Solutions Dental Group) & Carie Hughes
- Corey Mendoza (Owner, C & R Trucking, Chino Valley City Councilman) & Dawn Wilson
- Greg Mengarelli (Mayor, City of Prescott & Director, United Christian Youth Camp) & Kelly Robertson (Leo Gallegos Choreographer)
- Steve Pierce (local rancher and politician, former President of the AZ State Senate) & Sara Muchnij (Leo Gallegos Choreographer)
- Sam Shapiro (REALTOR®, Realty One Group, Rrainer, Captain Crossfit) & Mary Heller
“This year is going to be spectacular, and we are changing things up and adding new elements, so that more people can participate this year,” said Kristen Kerns, Development Director.
There are a variety of options for guests to participate in Dancing for the Stars. A matinee show has been added to the afternoon. VIP tickets remain the same, to include the red carpet reception, evening show and after-party. Those who cannot attend, but want to support their favorite celebrity, can purchase votes. Vote purchases qualify for the Arizona State Charitable Tax Credit.
Above all the glitz and excitement is the purpose for the event—to raise funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona. The clubs are a vital resource for families, providing after-school programming to youth ages 6-18.
The afternoon and evening hours outside of school are unique opportunities for kids— to either be engaged in productive activities or be at risk of becoming a statistic. Youth are at greatest risk of becoming victims of crime, experimenting with drugs and alcohol, and other risky behaviors during after-school hours. The Boys & Girls Clubs provide a home away from home during this time. Youth participate in Power Hour (dedicated homework time and tutoring) and Healthy Habits programs, including an hour of active play daily (activities such as mountain biking, basketball and, yes, dance!). They also learn traits of good character and citizenship through volunteerism and other community outreach projects. As one of the few after-school youth development organizations in the community, BGCCAZ is uniquely positioned through our specialized programs to positively affect their lives of the youth they serve. Club members develop lasting relationships with fellow members and staff that enhance their lives and shape their futures. It is their core belief that every child deserves a safe place to learn and grow, supportive relationships with caring adults, and life-enhancing programs. Because of the support of our community, BCCCAZ served more than 600 youth in 2016.
The 2018 Dancing for the Stars fundraiser will take place on Saturday, April 14, 2018 and is sponsored by the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Prescott, Lamb Chevrolet and Switch Performing Arts. Tickets are expected to go on sale in December, and will sell out fast. To be notified when tickets are available, please visit www.dancingforthestars.net. For other event updates, follow Dancing for the Stars on Facebook at facebook.com/dancingforthestars
