16th annual Swinging with the Stars gala raises record-breaking $565K for COHA

It was a banner year for the Swinging with the Stars gala and, in turn, the Central Okanagan Hospice Association (COHA).

The 16th annual edition of the glamorous fundraiser saw people pack the Delta Grand Okanagan Resort ballroom for an evening of dancing on Saturday, Feb. 22.

By the time all was said and done, a record-breaking total of $565,000 was raised for the COHA to provide wide-reaching and diverse care to people in the final stage of their life.

COHA has supported individuals and families by providing compassionate care to those facing life-limiting illnesses, grief and bereavement for the past 42 years.

“Swinging with the Stars is a success because of the unwavering support of the community, our sponsors, volunteers and the incredible talent on the dance floor,” said Natasha Girard, COHA executive director.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved, reaffirming this community’s commitment to COHA’s vision – a community where no one has to face death or grief alone.”

The event was presented by Unison Jane Hoffman Realty, and Hoffman said she’s “overwhelmed with gratitude” to see so much money raised.

"This is the most we’ve ever raised and it’s all because of our community's generosity and their belief in the support COHA provides,” she explained.

The lead up to last weekend’s event began all the way back in October when seven local celebrity dancer teams were introduced.

They trained with professional instructors for months in preparation for the Swinging with the Stars gala while working behind the scenes to raise funds for the COHA.

After they showcased what they had learned and put together on Friday, the following awards were handed out:

Most Pledges Raised:

• Single/Duo: Team Think Pink! (Dallas Stober and Aidan Myhre)
• Group: Team Dancing Divas (Crystelle Gordon, Alex Vigue, Anita Parker, Sanela Sehovac, Izabela Picco, Shannon Perdok and Heidi Johnson.

Judges Choice Award:

• Single/Duo: Team Rhythm Dream (Paula Quinn)
• Group: Team Booth Babes (Angela McLean, Ellyn Figley, Laura Vance, Amantha Fedick, Amanda Dearing, Kaya Caron, Taylor Bentley and Katie Stewart)

Audience Choice:

• Single/Duo: Team Think Pink!
• Group: Team Booth Babes