Innisfil Deputy Mayor Kenneth Fowler signed up to dance the night away while supporting Easter Seals Kids.
Fowler has agreed to compete in Barrie’s annual Dancing with Easter Seals Stars event being held on Friday, April 12 at Liberty North, located at 100 Caplan Ave., in the city's south end.
Dancers will be invited to break out their bell bottoms and do the hustle, as this disco-themed night will include hors d’oeuvres, dinner, a special cocktail and a dance competition.
“To support the event, anyone can buy a seat, a table or simply donate directly through the link provided. Every $20 equals a vote and goes to a truly noble cause. Funds raised go towards things like mobility equipment, communication devices, orthotics, camps and more,” Fowler said.
According to Easter Seals Ontario, by donating, "you are providing the pivotal support that can empower a child with a physical disability to discover and develop their own breakthrough potential. Whether it is $500 for a new walker, $1,000 for a ramp, or $2,400 for an eight-day session at Easter Seals’ fully accessible summer camps, your support will give a child the tools they need to overcome barriers and reach new heights.”
Barrie Easter Seals Stars Charlene Myke development manager thanked the dancers for their effort, which is "changing lives and giving kids independence, dignity and freedom."
Fowler said he and his wife enjoy dancing, but they don’t stick to one style while on the floor.
“We love them all, however, I will happily admit my wife is the better dancer,” he said.
Fowler will be paired with a professional from Lakeside Dance Studio in Innisfil. Co-owners and instructors of Lakeside Dance, Ashely and Adam Spadafora, will each be partnered with four dancers during the event.
"Lakeside Dance has been supporting Easter Seals and have participated in this event for the past 10 years,” Adam said. “Each year, the atmosphere is electric and the experience is amazing for the dancers and audience alike. People talk about this event for months after it ends. It goes to show what we can accomplish coming together as a community for those in need.”
The couple said the event draws a huge audience and almost always sells out.
“It is amazing to see the energy that people put towards this goal. It takes eight weeks of preparation from volunteers and a tremendous effort from the dancers who not only are learning how to dance and perform in front of hundreds of people, but also fundraising to help send children with disabilities to Easter Seals camp,” Ashley said. “It warms my heart, and I always look forward to dancing for the kids.”
Fowler said this will be his first time participating in the event, but "to grow, one must step out of their comfort zone. This is a rare opportunity to challenge myself and raise awareness to the good Easter Seals does for the children.”
“I want to give a giant shout-out to Ashley and Adam Spadafora ... for teaching all the dancers. They are inspiring everyone to find their inner Disco King and Queen within and bring them to the dance floor,” Fowler said.
Readers can vote for Fowler and make a donation to Easter Seals Kids here. Learn more about the event and buy tickets to it by visiting this website.
