Mirror Balls, Moves, and a Mission: Dance-Off Aims to Dress Students

With music, mirror balls, and local heroes ready to bust a move, the first-ever “Dueling Disco” event is spinning its way into Warren County on June 27, bringing together the community to support a powerful cause: helping 200 local students start the school year with brand-new, choice clothing.

Hosted by the Hike Kidz Foundation and co-sponsored by Jean’s Jewelers, the high-energy fundraiser will take place at Shenandoah Valley Golf Club from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. The event combines a disco-themed dance competition with a car giveaway, live music, dinner, and auctions — all in support of the foundation’s “Clothe the Kidz” initiative.

The goal? Raise $70,000 — or $350 per student — to empower children from Warren County Public Schools with clothing that boosts confidence, dignity, and readiness for the classroom.

“This is about helping these kids walk into school feeling equal, prepared, and proud,” said Amber Veitenthal, Front Royal’s Vice Mayor and President of the Hike Kidz Foundation Board. “We’re not just giving them clothes — we’re giving them confidence.”

Local Heroes Step Up to Dance — and Fundraise

Inspired by shows like Dancing with the Stars, the centerpiece of the evening is the “Dueling Dance Off,” where a group of community leaders and first responders — affectionately called “Dance Heroes” — will go head-to-head in a judged disco showdown.

The lineup includes:

• Dr. Christopher Ballenger, Superintendent of Warren County Public Schools
• Officer Landon Waller, Front Royal Police Department
• Sgt. Kristen Hajduk, Warren County Sheriff’s Office (and the only female competitor)
• Joe Petty, representing the Town of Front Royal
• Michael Sean Williams, Warren County Rotary
• David Beahm, Warren County Building Department
• Timmy Mawyer, Warren County Fire Department
• Colin Miller, part of the Project Hope Team

The twist? The dancer who raises the most money ahead of the event will receive a major advantage in the final judging. Community members can show their support by texting MYDANCEHERO to 53555, selecting their favorite participant, and making a donation.

Sheriff Crystal Cline, Chamber President Niki Foster, and Bill Long of Cars Changing Lives will judge the dance-off. The top performer will receive a trophy—the Mirror Ball, sponsored by Studio Verde.

A Car Giveaway and Community Impact

One of the most anticipated moments of the evening will be when the winning dancer presents the keys to a white Nissan to a local family in need, chosen from the nonprofit’s extensive waiting list. The car, donated by Mark Smoot of the Auto Center and first showcased at the event kickoff on Royal Avenue, may be small in size but is expected to make a significant difference in the life of its new owner.

“We’ve given away nearly 75 cars to date,” said Sandy Long, co-founder of Cars Changing Lives. “Partnering with Hike Kidz is special because we’re not only providing transportation — we’re doing it in a way that celebrates community and generosity.”

Packed Program Promises Fun and Fundraising

Tickets to the event include appetizers, dinner, and live entertainment by Felix & Fingers Dueling Pianos, followed by open dancing for all. Guests can also participate in:

• A public dance-off ($25 to enter — only 20 spots available)
• A silent and live auction led by auctioneer Tom Eshelman
• A 50/50 raffle
• A photo booth and special surprises
• The chance to sponsor student clothing, backpacks, or teacher tables

Event organizers also encourage guests to dress to match the disco, dance, and casino vibes that will define the evening.

More Than an Event — A Mission

The Clothe the Kidz initiative goes beyond handing out clothing. The foundation hosts a six-day empowerment experience in July, during which students shop for their new wardrobes alongside mentors and volunteers. This ensures that kids are not just given clothing but dignity, choice, and support.

How You Can Help

Attend the Event:
June 27, 2025 | 5:30–10:30 PM | Shenandoah Valley Golf Club
Tickets available via www.hikekidzfoundation.org or at Jean’s Jewelers

Donate to a Dancer:
Text MYDANCEHERO to 53555

Sponsor a Backpack or Student:
Donate a backpack or Sponsor a child

Volunteer:
Submit your application

Special Thanks

The Hike Kidz Foundation thanked co-hosts Jean’s Jewelers and Harmony Hike, as well as sponsors including:

• Downtown Local – Title Sponsor
• Royal Cinemas and Rick Novak – Entertainment Sponsors
• Studio Verde – Mirror Ball Trophy Sponsor
• Cars Changing Lives and The Auto Center – Car Donation
• Hugh Henry – Sponsor of the Project Hope Team Table
• Plus, dozens of donors, volunteers, media partners, and businesses across the region.

“This is what community looks like,” said Amber Veitenthal. “It’s disco, it’s dancing, and it’s making a difference.”

Learn more about the Hike Kidz Foundation by watching this video: