One of the things that makes Darien such a special community is the tremendous number of residents who are willing to give their time, talents, and energy to make Darien a better place to live. Our civic organizations, social groups, schools, churches, and other community organizations all play an important role in bringing people together and supporting the programs, activities, and causes that make our community stronger.
Over the next several months, two important events offer a chance for your participation to make a real difference: our Annual Dancing with the Darien Starz and our 54th Annual Citizen of the Year Banquet. Beginning with today’s message on Dancing with the Darien Starz, I ask our community organizations and residents to consider getting involved in one or both of these special events.
On Friday, February 12th 2027, the Darien Business Alliance and the City of Darien will host our Second Annual Dancing with the Darien Stars at Ashton Place Banquet Hall. This is more than an entertaining evening; it is a fundraiser supporting a worthy charitable organization. Last year our inaugural event was a tremendous success, with our local Cancer Smashers receiving a donation check for $11,000. This money was raised by donations made in the name of individual contestants.
A big part of that success came from the 11 individuals who volunteered to represent a local organization, school, or civic group by becoming one of our dance contestants. We are hoping to find 11 to 12 contestants for this year’s event, and we are looking for individuals from throughout our community who are willing to step outside their comfort zone, have some fun, and support a great cause.
Each contestant will receive five complimentary lessons with a professional dancer from “My Dance Hub” in Oakbrook. During those lessons, contestants will work with their professional partners to select a musical piece and to develop a dance routine choreographed around a theme that fits their personality and their talents.
As a former contestant myself, I can tell you there is certainly some anxiety involved when you first think about getting out on the dance floor, but I can also tell you that I had a great time. The lessons were enjoyable, the friendships and camaraderie among the contestants were terrific, and there was a real sense of satisfaction in representing an organization contributing to a worthwhile cause. You don’t have to be a professional dancer; you just have to be willing to give it a try.
So, to our civic, social, religious, and community organizations, please think about someone in your organization who might be willing to take on this challenge. Perhaps that person is you.