Dancing for Safe Haven Helps Families Experiencing Homelessness

Guests arrived at Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts for the annual Dancing for Safe Haven, a Dancing with the Stars-style competition that pairs professional dancers with community advocates for an uplifting evening of fundraising. The event raises money for Safe Haven Family Shelter, which helps families experiencing homelessness stay together as they work toward stability.

Before the competition, guests mingled with the night’s performers. And glittery signs bearing contestants’ names began dotting the crowd, as supporters readied themselves to cheer on their favorite dancers.

Emcees Danielle Breezy, Rebecca Murphy and Ashlee Meier welcomed guests and introduced the evening’s esteemed judges: Heather Byrd, Joshua Mundy, Carolyn Smith Bryant and Christopher Wayne. They also spotlighted Safe Haven’s mission with a brief video offering a closer look at the organization’s work.

After the Raise the Paddle brought in crucial funds for Safe Haven, the dancers took the stage. Business leader Scott Bruni and professional dancer Kalai Myrick opened the competition with a high-energy performance to “The Devil Went Down to Georgia.”

Accounting expert Erin Sparks and Jack Gardner followed, then tax manager Vinit Rai and Laynee Day delivered a sporty routine. Health executive Liisa Ortegon performed alongside partner Michael Hosale. Utility supply executive Sean Newman and Mallory Evan lit up the stage with athletic spins and turns, and nonprofit executive Jeanette Barker and Sean Lyons closed out the competition with a performance that brought the crowd to its feet.

At the end of the evening, Vinit took home the trophy — but the celebration ultimately belonged to Safe Haven and the families it serves.