The 2022 Dancing Within the Star City Benefit for the Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation (JCMF, www.joshtheotter.org), inaugurally held on November 12, was definitely an event to remember. The idea that started out as a dinner with friends turned into one of the largest fundraisers for the JCMF to date, raising over $100,000.
JCMF would like to thank the following benefit judges for their participation: Rod Fowler (KLKN-TV Anchor), Paige Zutavern (Strictly Business), Natalie Pieper (Miss NE USA), Erika Etzelmiller (Miss NE USA 2021), and Jack Riggins (KLIN Radio Host).
In addition, JCMF thanks the evening’s eight celebrity couples. The winning dance couples were Mark and Senator Suzanne Geist (Judge’s Champion), Tim and Amy Clare (Fan Favorite Champion), and Jason and Jamie Peters (Fundraising Champion). Greg Dorff and Heather Callam, Scott and Ali Ritter, Dr. Matt and Amberly Byington, and Fred and Carol Hoiberg gave wonderful performances as well. A special thank you also goes to following dance studios: Chase of the Spirit of Dance, Elements Dance Concept, Hart Dance Academy, White Wave Studios, Al & Roberta Doeden, and Nebraska Ballroom Dance. The couples and volunteer dance instructors contributed hours to make this event a success.
After Kathy and Blake Collingsworth lost their son Joshua 14 years ago, they founded Joshua Collingsworth Memorial Foundation to ensure everyone receives the education and awareness to be safe in and around water. Education is provided through Josh The Otter books, Float 4 Life infant and toddler water training, and Lifejacket Loaner Stations. In 2022, JCMF partnered with the Autism Family Network to provide Float 4 Life lessons for autistic children. Through collaborations like this and community support, JCMF will continue to save lives and prevent childhood drownings in Nebraska and around the world. For more information, visit www.joshtheotter.org.