The Warsaw community is set to come alive with rhythm and goodwill as "Dancing with the Stars for Charity" event returns to the Warsaw Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. Saturday.
This evening brings together Warsaw Community Schools (WCS) staff and local community members, all stepping onto the dance floor to support 10 local charities.
Now in its third year, the event has previously raised nearly $25,000. This year, organizers have set an ambitious goal, according to a provided news release.
"We want to raise $25,000 in one night," said Kris Lake, producer and organizer of the event. "Our goal is to exceed $50,000 in total donations, and I truly believe we can achieve that this year! However, to make that happen, we need to sell all 975 seats in the PAC."
The event features 10 teams, each comprising a WCS staff member, a community participant and two student choreographers from the Warsaw Community High School Dance Department. These teams have been rehearsing, many venturing into dance for the first time.
The show is staged much like the popular TV show, with each team performing two dances. A panel of judges will provide feedback, and all audience members will be given the chance to vote for their favorite teams.
"This event is not just about dancing; it's about coming together to make a difference," Lake said.
Charities that will benefit from this year's event include Boomerang Backpacks, Fear is a Liar Ministries, Fellowship Missions, Food Bank of Northern Indiana, Giant Paw Prints Rescue, Giving Basics, Habitat for Humanity Kosciusko County, Kosciusko Community Senior Services, myTeam Triumph and Project Ebenezer.
"We aim to feature a diverse range of local not-for-profit organizations each year," Lake explained. "Our only criterion is that these organizations serve a need of some kind within Kosciusko County."
Each team has embraced the challenge, dedicating countless hours to perfect their performances, most practicing for over four months.
Tickets are now available, ranging from $14 to $30, depending on seating preference. Every dollar from ticket sales will be evenly distributed among the featured charities, with the winning team's charity receiving a slightly larger share. Tickets can be purchased online at www.warsawschools.org/pac or by calling the WCHS Performing Arts Center Box Office at 574-371-5040 during school hours.
"We're incredibly blessed to have such an amazing cast this year," Lake said. "This event wouldn't be possible without the hard work and dedication of our dancers, choreographers, and volunteers. What you'll see on stage will truly be a miracle in motion."