Kids Dance for a Cause Jan. 23 in West Bloomfield

A group of sixth-graders enrolled in Joe Cornell Entertainment dance classes will perform in a Jan. 23 dance-a-thon at Orchard Mall in West Bloomfield for Blessings in a Backpack, to close out their 13-week etiquette-dance class.

The dance-for-a-cause program is in its fifth year of designating a non-profit to receive the support and fundraising efforts of students and families. Students over the past four years raised have more than $35,000. 

“When we developed the idea to add a leadership component to our dance program, I wasn’t sure if the kids would embrace it,” said Steve Jasgur, president of Joe Cornell Entertainment and co-owner with his sister, Rebecca Schlussel. “But they love it. It gives purpose and inspiration to our dance program, and helps us finish on a very high level.”

“Blessings in a Backpack is a cause the kids can get on board with,” said Schlussel. “This organization ensures that impoverished elementary-age children receive food on the weekends during the school year. When our students heard that some kids may not be able to afford to eat, they were shocked. They are so energized to try to do something to help.”

Joe Cornell students will collect pledges from friends and family to sponsor their 75-minute dance-a-thon. The kids who raise the most qualify for raffle prizes.

The 7 p.m. event is open to the public.