News & Events

Local celebrities stepped out of their comfort zones and onto the dance floor on Saturday at Youth Emergency Services’ (YES) fourth annual Dance for a Chance fundraising event, raising $26,000 for homeless and at-risk youth.

Dance for a Chance is dance competition similar to the television show “Dancing with the Stars.” Contestants worked with dance instructors to perform a 90-second dance routine in front of celebrity judges and an audience of more than 200 YES supporters.

Prior to the competition, dancers were encouraged to recruit votes, at $5 per vote, to help raise funds and awareness about the event. This year’s celebrities brought in more than $6,000 in votes, a 250 percent increase from the previous year. Additional funds were raised through ticket sales, a silent auction, a raffle and a special Borsheims jewelry raffle.

All proceeds from the event benefit YES’ youth and programs. YES serves homeless and at-risk youth in the Omaha metro by providing critically-needed resources which empower youth to become self-sufficient.

“I find it very tragic that in Omaha, in Nebraska, that there is a need for these services,” said Judy Daniell, local mom blogger and Dance for a Chance participant.

“I was just so motivated with what YES does and why they’re here and what they’re doing and because there is a need, I’m glad YES is here to serve.”

The Dance for a Chance trophy was awarded to the dancer who raised the most money through votes. This year’s winner was Gene Dunn, co-owner of Goldberg’s in Dundee, who received more than 650 votes.