There’s a great initiative underway that involves students, raising money, the National March For Life and dancing! In December, Kerriann Miller and Robin Mendonca were the head organizers for the second annual Dance for Life in southwestern Ontario. They were helped by their committee of Mitch Gunnarson, Stephanie Hoffbauer, Tracey Mendonca and Karynn Scott.

It is estimated that this year’s dance was attended by 115 people and raised about $1,000 for the cause. They will put it all towards going to the 10th National March for Life this May.

The idea started off small and has since grown to a dance at St. Louis Church in Waterloo, Ont. that draws people not just from the Kitchener-Waterloo area, but also Guelph, Toronto, Hamilton, London, Stratford and Walkerton. The majority of attendees are high school or university aged. It is an alcohol-free event, and that doesn’t seem to faze anyone.

For $15 – the price of admission – students enjoyed an evening of dancing, meeting fellow pro-lifers, supporting a good cause and the chance to win prizes. The door prizes included a stereo system and videos, among other things.

Mark Koechl provided his DJ services for a modest fee to help keep the price affordable for students. They advertised the event through e-mails, phone calls and word of mouth. The hall was free of charge and the parish does not regret it.

Johanna Miller, president of McMaster LifeLine, gave a motivational speech. She talked about what it means to be pro-life and inspired those in attendance to take an active role in the fight for the rights of all human beings.

Although it was a lot of work, organizers say they will definitely be doing it again. Kerriann notes that it may take a lot of time and energy, but it is worth the amazing experience.