RUTLAND — Due to continued uncertainty with Covid-19, the VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region (VNAHSR), will postpone the popular fundraising event, Dancing with the Rutland Stars.
“This was a tough call to make,” said Carrie Allen, committee chair. “This event is an incredibly important event for pediatric programs and services at the VNA & Hospice and it’s one of our favorite ways to raise much needed awareness and support for these programs.”
“Our primary concern is always the responsibility we feel towards the safety and health of our dance professionals and stars, who make this show the success it is,” said Bernadette C. Robin, director of marketing and philanthropy. “The event day performance is the culmination of many months, days, and hours of practice. There is also the considerable additional investment of time in making everything from props to costumes. The uncertainty of when and how Covid will progress throughout 2022 and the commitment of our dance professionals, stars, and volunteer event committee was a very real concern in our decision to postpone the event.”
The event has been a vital fundraising event for pediatric programs since its inaugural event in 2010.
“No matter the uncertainty of the pandemic, our commitment to children and families in Bennington and Rutland counties remains unchanged,” said Sara King, CEO of VNAHSR. “Thanks to strong community support and the dedication of our staff, we will be here for them through the entirety of their healthcare journey with us.”
“For our philanthropy team and the event planning committee, “The show must go on” is part of our DNA, and we are exploring options to reschedule the event in 2023” continued Bernadette Robin. “We are also discussing other safe ways for our community to come together to support pediatric programs at the VNA & Hospice.”
