Dancing with the Stars for Hope took center stage at Habersham Central High School Saturday night. The event raised over $100,000 for Circle of Hope, a nonprofit that helps victims of domestic violence.
Six teams competed and raised a combined total of $100,171.
The “No Assembly Required” team of Melissa and Kevin Wood raised $34,251 and won first place in the People’s Choice category. Heather Sinyard and Kevin Angell of “Disorderly Conduct” took second in the People’s Choice category, raising $27,338. The “Sweet Disaster” team of Jessie Owensby and Heath Barrett placed third with $8,503.
The “Diamond in the Rough” team of April and Chris Akridge won the Judge’s Choice award for best performance, followed by the Woods in second, and Jamie Mentzer and Kelly and Caleb Segers of “In a Heartbeat” in third.
The Mentzer, Segers trio also took home the Most Entertaining award.
This year’s dance competition marked the full return of DWTS for Hope. The 2020 event was postponed a year because of the pandemic. Seating at last year’s event was limited due to COVID capacity restrictions.
Funds raised will be used to support Circle of Hope’s emergency shelter operations.
“We are very thankful for the individuals and businesses that supported this year’s participating teams to help raise over $100,000 to support families experiencing domestic violence,” says Circle of Hope Executive Director Suzanne Dow. “We are only able to continue our mission to support, empower and bring hope to those experiencing domestic violence with the support of our community and every year the community steps up and helps us help others. We are so grateful.”
