Dancing their way to raising a fantastic £800, Loughborough’s Inner Wheel held a Zumbathon to help transform more lives.

On March 11, Loughborough’s Inner Wheel group and Canine Partners took over the foyer of Loughborough Leisure Centre with a colourful display and raffle, drawing people in to throw some shapes in order to raise much needed funds.

Around 40 participants danced nonstop for an hour and a half, led by instructor Karen Hix who kindly gave her time free of charge to support the event. Zumba involves dance and aerobic movements performed to energetic Latin music. Everyone taking part showed boundless energy throughout, and once the time was up, all agreed that it was a great workout for a great cause!

In addition to dancing the afternoon away, several local businesses supported the event by donating raffle prizes. These included cinema ticket vouchers, meals, Leisure Centre activities, Easter eggs and much more.

The event was supported by the Leisure Centre staff who provided the studio free of charge, and along with the local Rotary Club helped to set up and run the raffle.

To oversee the event, and to add a waggy tail to the proceedings, canine partner Chico attended with his human partner Jane and her husband Mike.

Helen Wilson from the Loughborough Inner Wheel group said:

“Chico the dog, of course, was the star of the show, and knew it! He gave everyone who came within range a show of affection.”

On choosing to support Canine Partners, Helen added:

“I first encountered Canine Partners when they gave a presentation at a Rotary Conference. I was impressed by just how much a dog can change the life of a disabled person, not only by physically helping, but the psychological support of companionship, security, confidence to go out, and enabling communication and the start of friendships.

I was also struck by how happy the dogs were in their work – all tasks were completed with a wag of the tail.

I have since been to a Canine Partners Information Session at the Midlands Centre and was moved to tears by the stories of the people whose lives had been turned around by having a canine partner.

I do believe this is such a worthwhile charity and that their strapline that they ‘transform lives’ is true.”

Everyone at Canine Partners extends a huge congratulations and thank you to everyone who took part in the event.

Would you like to organise your own fundraising activity?

We are always in awe of the amazing work that our fundraisers do to raise awareness and funds for Canine Partners. If you would like to arrange your own fundraising activity, visit our Organise A Fundraising Activity page for some inspiration now.