Community Shines at Dancing for Shelter, Raising Over $40,000 for Maddiwar House of Hope

November 10, 2025

ChamberCommunityPress Release

PRESTONSBURG, KY — November 8, 2025 — The Floyd County Homeless Shelter’s annual Dancing for Shelter fundraiser lit up the stage at the Mountain Arts Center on Saturday, November 8, raising over $40,000 in support of the Maddiwar House of Hope.

Modeled after everyone’s favorite professional dancing reality competition, Dancing for Shelter pairs local community leaders and volunteers with experienced dancers for an evening of fun, flair, and philanthropy all in the spirit of helping neighbors in need. This year, 14 couples competed for their very own mirror ball trophy, showcasing not only impressive moves but also tremendous heart.

Serving as emcees were Mickey McGuire, Board Attorney, and Amber Burchett, a former Dancing for Shelter contestant, who kept the crowd engaged and entertained throughout the night. McGuire reflected on what makes Dancing for Shelter so meaningful to the community,

“You hear so much about things that the government funds, but this is community people. These are people that live where we live, that are trying to help their neighbors. This is not government funded; it’s all donations by local people for local people.”

Judges for the evening included Jody Shepherd of Dance Etc. in Prestonsburg alongside professional dance duo Jason Miklic and Sophy Kdep from Northern Kentucky. While scores were tallied by Stephen Pack of Pack and Associates, CPA, who volunteers his services each year, Jason and Sophy delighted the audience with a surprise freestyle performance.

Members of the Homeless Shelter’s Board of Directors volunteered throughout the evening to ensure a seamless event. Board President Gerald DeRossett and Vice President Tim Hatfield led a touching presentation honoring the late Willard Kinzer, a past Dancing for Shelter champion and dedicated community leader.

The event’s silent auction was organized by Executive Board Member and Treasurer Robin Slone, with assistance from fellow board members Judi Calhoun, Terry Hall, and Renee Hall. Executive Board Members Lynn Case and Reva Trusty managed the lobby’s voting booth alongside Board Member Sherry Cline, while Board Members Karen Roberts Prater, JJ Walker, and Dalton Hatfield welcomed guests and guided them to the photo area. A colorful balloon arch and lobby photography were provided by community volunteers MaryAnn Fletcher and Merisa Ferrell, while Steve Porter donated his professional photography services for the dancers and judges.

Reflecting on the evening’s success, Executive Board Member and Secretary Jeania Perry shared,

“What makes this event shine isn't just the lights or the music, it's the heart behind it. The volunteers and board members who jump in wherever they are needed, the dancers who have dedicated hours and hours to practicing, all while balancing careers and busy schedules yet still pour their time into this event, they are the heartbeat of our mission and Dancing for Shelter.”

At the end of the night, Adam McGuire and Heather Blair claimed first place and took home the grand mirror ball trophy, while John Rosenberg and Charlotte Soder earned second place and Shawn Allen and Meka Hall Castle finished third.

Each of the top three couples received a mirror ball trophy to commemorate their achievement with all money raised through votes for all the couples competing will go directly to supporting the day-to-day operations of the Floyd County Homeless Shelter Maddiwar House of Hope.