Sunday, March 13, 2011

Zumba fundraiser helps Strong Kids - Columbus Telegram

Zumba fundraiser helps Strong Kids - Columbus Telegram


Zumba fundraiser helps Strong Kids - Columbus Telegram

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COLUMBUS - Hips were shaking, and feet were tapping to the beat.

All the action was for a fundraiser at the Columbus Family YMCA.

On Saturday, the YMCA hosted three sessions of the popular dance-fitness program Zumba.

Seniors, adults and children were able to participate in a first ever Zumbathon. Certified Zumba instructors took turns leading groups of about 30 participants in each session to heart-pumping dance moves.

The exercise wasn't just good for those who took part, it also will benefit children in the community. Participants gave a donation to be part of the Zumbathon to raise money for the Y's annual Strong Kids Campaign, which provides memberships to children who's families can't afford it.

"The Y is big about there not being a kid denied," said Jennifer Brownlow, fitness director.

Membership dues do not cover all of the costs to support the Y, so it relies on donations from the community to help assure that no child is turned away, Brownlow said.

A goal of $1,000 was set for the Zumbathon.

The Strong Kids Campaign, which runs through April, provided more than $213,000 in financial assistance and subsides to children last year.

Brownlow said the Y is an important part of the community, especially for children.

"The Y is the foundation for everything. They can learn to play sports and also learn about good family values," she said.

Family was at the core of the Zumbathon. There were children as young as 4 and seniors in their 90s participating. Several moms brought their children as they worked out.

The YMCA has been offering Zumba for more than a year and put it into more classes for the older and younger generations because of its popularity.

"The music is very important. That is what attracts people. It is like a club," said instructor Brooke Taylor.

But dancing wasn't the only activity at the Y over the weekend. Another special fundraiser was also on Saturday.

The second annual luncheon by Traditions Inn and a fashion show was held in the afternoon. The fashion show featured clothes from The Buckle, Nebraska Sports, Barbara Jeans and Schweser's. Money raised from those events went to the fitness department for the purchase of new equipment.

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