Like all nonprofit organizations, Hendrick Home for Children needs to raise funds to fulfill our Mission. Over the years, several different ventures to raise funds were implemented in Abilene, Texas. In 2009, our main fundraiser, The Sporting Clay Classic came to an end, and we needed a fresh idea. We wanted to organize a unique event, not just another golf tournament or auction, but something that would be one-of-a-kind and not easily replicated. One of our volunteers, Neil Shultz, came to the HHC Board with an idea: Dancing with the Abilene Stars. Although a little apprehensive, we decided to give it a try.
The inaugural Dancing with Abilene Stars (DWTAS) was held on January 21, 2010, in the Conference Center of the Abilene Convention Center with 45 tables (approximately 450 people), 12 dancers and 2 professionals. Net Profit from the event that year was $52,788 –TWICE the amount we had hoped to raise! People loved it and it was the talk of the town for weeks after the event. With the addition of Shea Woodard Hall and Mikea Glenn as co-chairs in 2011 and 2013 respectively, DWTAS has become the best event in town.
Dancing With The
Abilene Stars
Creating Magic For A Good Cause
Every year, our amazing “Stars” have set the bar higher and higher. Eleven years, 132 dancers and numerous professionals, 129 tables on the floor, 40 seats in the balcony, hundreds of volunteers, and thousands of guests have raised millions of dollars. Yes, millions! To date, these extraordinary “Stars” with the love and support of their family, friends and the community of Abilene, have raised nearly $3.7 million for the children and families of Hendrick Home.
The unparalleled success of Dancing with the Abilene Stars could not happen without every piece of the puzzle: the Stars, the professional dancers, the committee and volunteers, the sound and lighting, the video production, etc., fitting perfectly together to create MAGIC!
Meet The 2023 Abilene Stars
