YES’s Dance for a Chance Event Sets Fundraising, Attendance Records

Thanks to the fundraising connections and dancing talents of 10 community leaders, Youth Emergency Services (YES; www.yesomaha.org) is proud to announce that its 11th Annual Dance for a Chance raised more than $144,000 on August 1 at the Omaha Design Center. Those figures surpassed last year’s event by more than $40,000, largely due to a record number of attendees and the two-month fundraising efforts of the 10 dancers, who, in total, raised more than $85,000.

Similar to Dancing with the Stars, Dance for a Chance pairs up dancers with instructors who then work together to create a dance, pick accompanying music, and practice over the summer before competing in August. At the same time, the dancers are working within their personal and professional networks to raise awareness and money for Youth Emergency Services.

Attendees enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and drinks, a silent auction, wine grab, photo booth, and a variety of impressive dance routines with the opportunity to cheer on and vote for their favorites. A panel of celebrity judges—Tom Becka, Andee Hoig, and Dave Wingert, along with a silent auction winner who bid the highest for a place on the judging panel–gave rousing and often hilarious critiques of the dancers. Former Morning Blend host Mike DiGiacomo served as the host. C&A Industries returned as this year’s Presenting Sponsor, while Lindsay Corporation was the YES Champion Sponsor. Lincoln Financial Group and First Data were this year’s Partner Sponsors, and D.A. Davidson was the Supporting Sponsor.

Youth Emergency Services is the only nonprofit in Omaha with the sole mission to help homeless and nearly homeless youth in the community. YES offers a full continuum of care to ensure all youth receive the support they need, no matter their situation. This includes a Street Outreach Center, Emergency Shelter, Transitional Living Program, and Maternity Home. To learn more, visit www.yesomaha.org.

Photo by Debra S. Kaplan.