Dancing for the Dream Breaks Records, Raises Over $200,000 in Unforgettable Night

Mason City, IA — 43 North Iowa’s signature fundraising event, Dancing for the Dream, reached new heights this year, raising more than $200,000 to support individuals with disabilities and mental health challenges across North Iowa.

The sold-out event, held at the historic Surf Ballroom, brought together a packed crowd for an evening filled with high-energy performances, creative fundraising, and a shared sense of purpose. Organizers say this year’s total marks the most successful event in its history.

“This night is about more than dancing,” said Executive Director John Derryberry. “It’s about our community coming together to celebrate everyone’s unique ability to contribute to North Iowa. It shows services can be fun, include everyone, and North Iowa is a supportive place. Our staff could not be happier with the turnout and excitement about our mission.”

Eight dance teams took the stage, each showcasing their own unique style and story. Beyond their performances, participants played a major role in fundraising efforts—securing sponsors, hosting creative events like celebrity bartending nights, organizing March Madness squares, and even “flocking” yards across the community.

New award categories added an extra layer of excitement this year, including a Judges Choice award for Best Overall Dance Performance. Audience participation and team spirit remained high throughout the evening.

2026 Award Winners included:

• Best Costumes: Tyler and Taylor Hedegard
• Best Signature Move: Casidey and Chris Burk
• Best Music Selection: Brian and Robbie Pauly
• Best Use of the Stage: J. Brooks and Amanda Kaufman
• Best Crowd Engagement: Grace Moore Klapperich and Ben Klapperich
• Best Energy: Eric and Brenda Merritt
• Best Use of Props: Stacy Doughan and Amy Hogg
• Best Storytelling: Danielle Pace and Shelbey Schade

The Judges Choice Award for Best Overall Dance Performance went to Brian and Robbie Pauly for their high-energy 90s mash-up.

Fundraising honors were also awarded, with the top three teams earning medals:

• 3rd Place: Brian and Robbie Pauly
• 2nd Place: Danielle Pace and Shelbey Schade
• 1st Place & Mirror Ball Trophy Winners: Grace Moore Klapperich and Ben Klapperich

“Dancing may not be our God-given talent, but it was humbling to see the support this event generated,” said Grace Moore Klapperich. “It’s inspiring to be part of a community, and organizations like 43 North Iowa, that are so dedicated to making North Iowa better.”

Funds raised from the event will directly support programs that help individuals navigate housing, employment, and community life—strengthening opportunities across North Iowa.

Organizers encourage those who missed the event to watch highlights on 43 North Iowa’s YouTube channel and are already looking ahead to next year’s event, scheduled for April 3, 2027.

And for anyone asked to participate next year, organizers have a simple message: say yes.