Dancing for a Cause: Battle of the Ballroom Unites the Community

Participants in Saturday's Battle of the Ballroom included, from left, front, Joe Wallace and Tricia Truax, second runner-up; Tiffany Luckino and Caleb Cooper, winners of the Glitter Ball Trophy; and Cassidy Sansone and Mike Biasi, first runner-up; back, Samantha Ebert and Eric Timmons, People's Choice Award; Joel John and Ruari Stoll, Judge's Choice Award; Lydia Boyd and Jason Lucarelli, Judge's Choice Award; and James Lash and Kaylee Miller, Judge's Choice Award. Proceeds raised during the evening will benefit the United Way of Jefferson County and the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley.

The energy was high and the purpose was clear as the United Way of Jefferson County partnered with the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley to host the inaugural Battle of the Ballroom. Held at the St. Florian Event Center, the sold-out evening brought together community members, local businesses, and supporters for a night of entertainment with lasting impact.

More than just a dance competition, the event showcased the heart of the community. Local participants stepped out of their comfort zones and onto the dance floor, dedicating weeks of preparation to raise both funds and awareness for United Way partner programs. Their efforts helped shine a spotlight on the critical services supporting families and individuals across the Ohio Valley.

“This event is so much more than just dancing,” shared Marci Snyder-Crawford, executive director of the United Way of Jefferson County. “It’s about people coming together to support one another and make a real difference across the Ohio Valley.”

The evening celebrated both talent and generosity. Tiffany Luckino and Caleb Cooper took home the coveted Glitter Ball Trophy, while additional honors recognized standout performances, including first and second runners-up, People’s Choice, and multiple Judges’ Choice awards. Each participant played a vital role in making the night a success.

From its earliest planning stages to the final performance, Battle of the Ballroom was a powerful example of collaboration in action. Staci Stephen, executive director of the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley, reflected on the impact: “It was a great night where everyone came together to help support more than 40 programs across eight counties.”

Proceeds from the event will directly benefit both United Ways, ensuring vital resources remain local—supporting programs that strengthen families, promote education, and provide essential services when they are needed most.

Events like this are made possible through the generosity of sponsors and community partners, whose support helped bring the evening to life. Special thanks were also extended to the event’s emcees, who kept the night engaging and celebratory.

As the evening came to a close, one message stood out: this is what it truly means to Live United. Every step taken on the dance floor translated into real change for neighbors across the region.

With such an incredible response in its first year, organizers are already looking ahead with excitement—hoping Battle of the Ballroom will continue to grow into a beloved annual tradition that brings the community together for an even greater impact.