Dads twirl their daughters on the dance floor for a good cause
Father Daughter Dance benefits youth & families in need with BCFS Health and Human Services–Del Rio
DEL RIO – On Friday, February 26, BCFS Health and Human Services–Del Rio hosted a Father Daughter Dance at Plaza del Sol Mall to celebrate the special bond between dads and daughters, and to recognize February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month.
More than 80 people from across Del Rio attended the dance, and DJ Sammy Lopez had the crowd grooving for hours. Certificates were awarded for the best 80s dancers, two-steppers, cumbia dancers and line dancers. Emily Ray Photography snapped professional photos of fathers and their daughters, and provided a photo souveneir to each guest.
“It was an awesome experience that my daughter and I will cherish for the rest of our lives,” said Sammy Lopez, who brought his daughter to the dance. “The dance focused on the importance of having a healthy relationship with my daughter.”
“A daughter’s first example of how men should treat women often comes from her father,” explains BCFS Director Delia Ramos. “The dance was a fun way for dads and daughters to make memories to last a lifetime, and learn about how their bond impacts the girl’s future relationships.”
Tracy Wayne Richardson, an outreach worker for the Del Rio Domestic Violence program operated by BCFS Health and Human Services–Del Rio, addressed the audience during a brief intermission from dancing. He discussed teen dating violence, and reminded fathers to treasure special moments with their girls.
“Make your daughter remember this relationship,” Richardson said. “Spend quality time with her.”
Ramos watched the crowd during Richardson’s remarks, and noticed the immediate impact of his message.
“I saw daughters look up lovingly at their dads when Mr. Richardson spoke, as if to say ‘he’s right, I love spending time with you,’” Ramos said.
Several fathers and daughters volunteered to speak publicly to other guests, to share why their relationships were special. Many of them became teary-eyed listening to one another’s heartfelt words, says Ramos.
Sponsors who made the dance possible include DJ Sammy Lopez, Plaza del Sol Mall, Emily Ray Photography, and Sugar & Spice. Finger foods were donated by Queens for a Cause, and additional refreshments were provided thanks to the generous contributions of community members.
Proceeds from ticket sales to the dance benefitted BCFS Health and Human Services–Del Rio, which provides domestic violence prevention and treatment, and crisis intervention and counseling for families. BCFS Health and Human Services–Del Rio operates the Del Rio Domestic Violence (DRDV) program, and Services To At Risk Youth (STAR).
For more information about BCFS’ work across Val Verde County, call (830) 768-2755, or visit DiscoverBCFS.net/DelRio.
