The 19th Annual Dancing with the Stars Austin (DWTSA), a signature benefit gala for the Center for Child Protection, recently brought together cast, volunteers, sponsors, and more than 1,000 guests in the Grand Ballroom of the downtown Austin JW Marriott, raising a record-shattering $2.95 million to support the Center’s mission to help abused children find hope and healing.
The glamorous evening featured dazzling dance performances that paired local celebrities and community leaders to raise awareness about child abuse and engage the community in support of vulnerable children.
The event was chaired by Amy Beard and Bridget Ramey, and, for the first time, DWTSA welcomed emcee Hunter Williams, KVUE's Chief Meteorologist, who kept the fast-paced affair on track. Jeff Jumonville, J.R. Martinez, and Amanda Tatom served as judges for the competition.
Guests enjoyed an immersive evening of old-Hollywood elegance that included cocktails, appetizers, dinner, and a spectacular showcase of dance styles that set the ballroom on fire.
The captivating production kicked off with an energetic opening number performed by Impact Arts Select Ensemble, composed of musical theatre performers from area high schools. The dance competition followed, featuring nine couples. From Western Two-Step to Cha-Cha to Viennese Waltz and beyond, the dancers thrilled the audience with their dips, spins, and turns, delivering high energy performances.
Each couple brought such precision and flair to their routine that the judges surely had a challenging task in scoring. Top honors were presented to 1st Place, Mark McCollum & Sarah Berens, 2nd Place, Dana Sasser & Nolan Whitely, and 3rd Place, Allison Ellsworth & Tristan Reimann. A stand-out performance by Dr. Tejas Patel & Angeline Sullivan earned the Judge’s Choice Award.
The Center for Child Protection, a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center, is the only non-profit in Travis County involved in investigating and prosecuting crimes against children. For over 30 years, it has provided a safe, child-friendly space, offering trauma-informed services, including forensic interviews, therapy, and medical care, with a vision to end the cycle of child abuse through education, advocacy, and community support.
To learn more, visit centerforchildprotection.org
