Jessica Maidlow, Sales Director at The Chateau at Gardnerville, had never performed on a stage before. But in April, in front of a sold-out crowd of 600 community members at the CVIC Hall in Minden, Nevada, she stepped into the spotlight as one of ten participants in this year’s Gotta Dance fundraiser. By the end of the night, she had raised $21,939 for the Suicide Prevention Network completely on her own through ticket sales, sponsorships, and donations — the highest total of any participant in this year’s Gotta Dance fundraiser.
Jessica’s efforts in supporting the fundraiser recipient – the Suicide Prevention Network (SPN) — were recognized with both the “Most Money Raised” and “Best Dance” awards. Her success and accolades were shared in the local newspaper, Carson Now.
Jessica partnered with professional dancer Alex K., a respected hip-hop instructor and choreographer known throughout the area. Together, the duo wowed the judges, earning perfect 10s across the board, thanks to Alex’s dynamic choreography and Jessica’s magnetic stage presence.
“It was such an honor to be invited to participate in this year’s event,” said Jessica. “The entire experience was unforgettable, and I was blown away by the incredible support from our community for SPN.”
The sales director, who has lived in the area her entire life, shared that her only prior dance experience came from “dancing with friends in her kitchen.” She joked that a professional dance career might still be part of her retirement plan. “If I made just one person smile that night, I already feel like I’ve won,” she added.
The Chateau resident Nancy A. also attended – though her allegiance on who to root for was split. Her grandson Michael K., a local realtor, also competed. “It was such a fun event, and I am so proud of all the celebrity dancers who participated,” she shared. “Especially Jessica and Michael!”
Hosted by the Suicide Prevention Network, “Gotta Dance” is a beloved annual event inspired by Dancing with the Stars, inviting 10 local “celebrity” participants to compete in front of the community and raise funds for suicide prevention efforts. Each participant trains with a local professional dancer, many of whom donate their time through The Dance Workshop, a vital supporter of the event’s success.
“We are beyond proud of Jessica for stepping out of her comfort zone and representing The Chateau with such grace, humor, and heart,” said Katie Nichols, Executive Director of The Chateau at Gardnerville. “She danced not only for the cause but for the joy of our entire community.”
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