Zumba Mega-Party Raises Over $13,000 for Sacha’s Park
A Zumba mega-party, hosted last Saturday by Vankleek Hill resident Louise Stephenson, saw nearly 100 participants dancing in the rain to raise over $13,000 to help build Sacha’s Park.
The participants, who wore the capes and costumes of their favourite super heroes, weren’t deterred by the light rain that came down throughout the event, which was held on the outdoor rink at the Vankleek Hill arena. Many commented that the opportunity to dance in the rain added to the overall fun and ambiance of the evening.
The event, dubbed the We Got The Power - Zumba Fundraiser for Sacha’s Park, featured Zumba instructors from as far away as Ottawa and Montreal, who were on hand to assist Louise Stephenson in leading the community support since it was announced this past March. The park, once built, will be one of the most inclusive playgrounds in Canada and feature items that will allow children of all abilities to play together.
The Chénier family were on hand for the event and were overjoyed by the continued community support. Jason Chenier, Sacha’s father, expressed the family’s gratitude. “We are so touched by this wonderful event that Lou put together. It’s amazing to see so many people come out in support of what we are trying to do. The community as a whole is really getting behind this project, and it is heartwarming to see.”
The evening’s event concluded with an emotional final dance number to Sacha’s favourite song, Over The Rainbow, by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. Before leaving, the participants came together for a big group hug, as a balloon, released in memory of Sacha, gently floated into the night sky. crowd through two hours of Latin- and international-rhythm inspired dance numbers. The instructors were joined at various points throughout the event by sponsored dancers, including members of the Hawkesbury OPP detachment. In addition to the dancing, activities included face painting, photo booth, door prizes and a silent auction.
The funds raised will go towards the purchase of equipment for Sacha’s Park, a universally accessible playground project to be built in L’Orignal in memory of Sacha Chénier. The project, being spearheaded by Sacha’s family who have donated land for the project, has received enthusiastic support from members of the Champlain Township council. The proposal has also seen broad The Chenier family accepting a cheque from Louise Stephenson (photo credit : Bruce Toombs).