[320] Have fun, get fit, raise funds at Jan. 18 Zumbathon for MTSU’s Project Help

MURFREESBORO — Get healthy while having fun and helping raise funds for little ones to learn? Who knew you could cover three New Year's resolutions in one swoop?

Supporters of Project Help, MTSU’s inclusive preschool, can do just that this Saturday, Jan. 18, at the second annual Zumbathon at Dance Murfreesboro.

The event, set from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 730-A Middle Tennessee Blvd., features the popular dance-fitness workout that requires no special knowledge or ability, just a willingness to have fun.

Participants can pay $20 each to join the Zumbathon and receive a free water bottle, refreshments and a chance to win door prizes. You can preregister online at http://www.facebook.com/projecthelp for only $15.

Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. for this year’s event.

“Having never 'Zumba'-ed until last year’s event, I now know that loud music plus well-trained instructors plus dancing plus fun lighting plus MAJOR enthusiasm equals quite the exhilarating experience," says Project Help Director Susan Waldrop.

"I'm not sure how much energy it would actually take to do the entire 120 minutes — I managed about 13 — but I did recognize that those folks who could persist were having a great time, and they looked fabulous. My goal is to dance for 15 minutes this year, so I’m asking that everyone keep a good thought."

All Zumbathon proceeds will be donated to Project Help, where little ones with developmental delays and disabilities can receive early-intervention and family-support services while they learn and play with those who are developing typically.

The progressive preschool serves children from 15 months to 3 years old, and “Project Help Prep” helps 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds get ready for public school.

“The staff at Project Help appreciates everyone’s efforts in putting this fundraiser together,” Waldrop said. “Purchasing supplies for everyday operations is an ongoing struggle. The money generated by last year’s Zumbathon really helped a lot.”

The 2013 Zumbathon drew more than 50 enthusiastic participants and generated more than $1,200 for Project Help’s Wishing Tree Program, which helps provide needed classroom supplies and materials for Project Help teachers.

Community contributors include Dance Murfreesboro, which is donating the studio space for the event; Cynthia Jones Photography at Studio C; Bombshells Hair Studio and Spa; Olympus Athletic Club; Positiffitea Tea Room; the Rutherford County Family YMCA; Barre 11; O’Possums Restaurant; and more.

For more information about the 2014 Zumbathon for Project Help, please contact Kerry Boylan at Kerry.Boylan@mtsu.edu or 615-898-2458 or visit http://www.facebook.com/projecthelp.