On Tuesday, UK’s Singletary Center for the Arts will be stepping to a different beat as fraternities and sororities perform in Stomp-A-Palooza, a charity event hosted by Kappa Alpha Theta and Alpha Phi Alpha. 

The event raises money for Theta’s Court Appointed Special Advocates and Alpha Phi Alpha’s March of Dimes. 

Both organizations are well worth supporting on Tuesday. CASA works to provide children in the foster care system with a volunteer representative in court. Children with a CASA are half as likely to re-enter the foster care system, and their personal needs and concerns are more likely to be met. In many instances, children may not have a solid role model or advocate in court that can help them tell their story. 

Through events like Stomp-A-Palooza and CASA of Lexington’s Superhero Run, CASA is able to support staffers who train and advise volunteers. Volunteers attend a 30-hour pre-service training course and stay with their child until their child’s case is closed. 

March of Dimes uses raised money to support the health of babies around the world through local partnerships, research and global programs. The organization has chapters that partner with local hospitals and agencies to “determine the most pressing maternal and child health needs and to develop a multiyear strategic plan that will positively impact the health status of communities,” according to its website. 

March of Dimes’ aide covers a variety of health risks, like premature birth, caring for an infant or handling the loss of a child. Research opportunities help prevent and solve problems associated with premature birth.

One of the unique aspects of Stomp-A-Palooza is that it unites all of Greek life as members of the Panehellenic Council, the Interfraternity Council and the National Pan-Hellenic Council work together to create a successful event. Greek chapters form teams and perform traditional step dancing routines. 

Step dancing uses the dancer’s whole body to create a cohesive rhythm and beat. Chapters’ performances have predetermined themes, music and costumes. 

Not only is Stomp-A-Palooza great for the community, it is a wonderful way to showcase the creativity and skill found in the Greek community. This year’s participants have been practicing for weeks on end to bring forth another successful fundraising event.

Stomp-A-Palooza starts at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Singletary Center. Tickets are $15 and are available through http://etix.com/ticket/p/5787352/stompapalooza-in-the-scfa-concert-hall-lexington-singletary-center. 

Lexington Souers is the features editor of the Kentucky Kernel.

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