By Katie Nichols — Jessica Maidlow, Sales Director at The Chateau at Gardnerville, a local senior living community, had never performed on a stage before. But on the evening of April 11, in front of a sold-out crowd of 600 community members in Minden, Nev., at the CVIC Hall in Minden, she stepped into the spotlight as one of 10 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.
The total raised by the event is still being finalized as contributions continue to come in. Still, early numbers point to a strong year in support of the Suicide Prevention Network (SPN) — and Maidlow’s efforts have already been recognized with both the “Most Money Raised” and “Best Dance” awards.
Jessica partnered with professional dancer Alex Kaskie, 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 Maidlow. “The entire experience was unforgettable, and I was blown away by the incredible support from our community for SPN.”
Maidlow, 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 Arcuri also attended – though her allegiance on who to root for was split. Her grandson Michael Koerner, 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.”
For more information about The Chateau at Gardnerville, please visit their website.
