Dancing stars will shine to raise funds for domestic violence survivors

Community leaders, media personalities, and local creatives will step onto the stage April 18 for the sixth annual Dancing with the DeKalb Stars. 

Hosted by the DeKalb County Solicitor-General’s Office, the event raises awareness and funding to support victims of domestic violence. Proceeds will benefit International Women’s House and Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence, two local organizations that provide shelter, advocacy, counseling, and support services for survivors and families throughout the county.  

This year’s event will be held at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts and Community Center at 3181 Rainbow Drive in Decatur. 

The lineup of performers includes columnist and The Champion Newspaper contributor Bill Crane as well as WSB investigative reporter Mark Winne; DeKalb County commissioner Dr. LaDena Bolton and her chief of staff, Lavezza Zanders-Johnson; celebrity choreographer and professional roller skater Kamille Gilmore of Sameo Production Studios and renowned skater Kyle Dutcher, known in the skating world as “Push.” 

Before the dance competition kicks off at 6 p.m., a community resource fair will be held at the entertainment venue starting at 5 p.m., connecting residents with nonprofit organizations and providers that offer services in the community, stated organizers. 

“This event is about more than dancing. It is about showing up for survivors and making sure families know help is available,” said Solicitor-General Donna Coleman-Stribling. “Every ticket purchased and every donation made strengthens the safety net for victims right here in our community.” 

She added, “Beginning with a community resource fair and culminating in an exciting dance showcase, this event reflects the power of partnership, service, and compassion. Together, we are building safer neighborhoods and brighter futures.”  

Community members can participate by purchasing tickets, becoming sponsors, donating to dance teams, or making general contributions, stated organizers. 

General admission tickets to the event, which include the resource fair, are $65 per attendee and can be purchased at https://cbo.io/app/public/bidapp/dekalbstars/tickets/tix. 

Since its inception, the event has raised more than $100,000 to support victims of domestic violence in DeKalb County, according to information provided by the DeKalb County Solicitor-General’s Office.