$3.4 Million Raised for Local Patients and Families Through Community Support of Hosparus Health’s ‘Dancing with Our Southern Indiana Stars’ Fundraiser

As the need for services increases, beloved fundraiser returns September 9

(NEW ALBANY, IN) — On Tuesday, September 9, local celebrities will lace up their dancing shoes and take center stage at Huber’s Orchard & Winery for an evening of dance, dinner, and community. The 2025 Dancing with Our Southern Indiana Stars event raises critical funds for Hosparus Health Southern Indiana. As the only nonprofit organization dedicated to this mission in the region, Hosparus Health Southern Indiana offers compassionate hospice and palliative care services, along with grief counseling, to patients and their families across Clark, Crawford, Floyd, Harrison, Jefferson, Orange, Scott, and Washington counties. Our patient-centered care model ensures that both pediatric and adult services are available to everyone, regardless of their financial situation. Last year, we proudly assisted over 650 local families during their times of need.

Thanks to the generosity of our Foxtrot co-presenting sponsors, Concierge Care of Southern Indiana and Scott Family Services/Magnolia Cremations, and our Cha-Cha sponsor, Koetter Woodworking, this year’s event promises to be the most impactful yet.

Tickets are now on sale at HosparusHealth.org/dancing — and supporters can vote early and often for their favorite dancers or bid in the online auction. Every dollar raised stays local to support families in Clark, Crawford, Floyd, Harrison, Jefferson, Orange, Scott, and Washington counties.

“It is incredible how the local community has consistently stepped up to support this event every year,” said Tawanda Owsley, Senior Vice President/Chief Development and Marketing Officer. “With event proceeds, we have been able to provide $3.4 million in direct care for patients and families right here in Southern Indiana. However, the need continues to grow as we see more and more patients every year, regardless of their ability to pay. Help us continue this vital work and support even more families in our community.”

2025 Dancers

• Michelle Konkle, Financial Advisor, Edward Jones – Instructor: Clay Marshall
• Aaron Scott, Owner/Funeral Director, Scott Family Services – Instructor: Cherie Lanier
• Ericka Stumler, HR Manager, Insulated Roofing Contractors – Instructor: Damian Pataluna
• Heidi Steinert Kraft, Owner, Ripple Effect Lagree Studio – Instructor: Clay Marshall
• Brittany Payton, Head Dance Team Coach, Floyd Central High School – Instructor: Damian Pataluna
• Megan Flanagan, Owner, Board & You Bistro & Custom Charcuterie – Instructor: Cherie Lanier

• Misty Newkirk, Co-owner, ReNew Salon & Aundrea Beets, Co-owner, ReNew Salon – Instructor: Clay Marshall
• David Laughlin, Senior VP, Wealth Advisor, First Savings Wealth Management & Gina Laughlin, Nurse Practitioner, UofL Physicians – Instructor: Cherie Lanier
• Gaurav Sharma, Owner, G Fit Life & Janetta Sharma, Director of Finance & Operations, G Fit Life – Instructor: Damian Pataluna
• Mark Bickers, Family Physician & Casey Bickers, Executive Coordinator, Koetter Woodworking – Instructor: Irina Yevtenko

In addition to the exhilarating dance competition, the evening features silent and live auctions, a buffet dinner, and a cash bar. Ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships support our dancers in reaching their fundraising goals while contributing to a great cause.

This year’s fundraiser is especially meaningful, taking place just days before the September 16 groundbreaking of the region’s first dedicated Hospice Care Center, serving families across Southern Indiana and Kentucky. The new state-of-the-art facility, located in Louisville, will feature 21 private rooms, serene gardens, and family gathering spaces, with grief counseling services next door at the Hosparus Health Grief Counseling Center. Learn more at PlacesOfCompassion.com.

Media Contact
Dyan Duncan
Executive Director of Marketing & Communications