Ovations Dance Studio (25 E. Lee) held their first ever “Heart & Sole” event, a special fundraiser for Place of Refuge Global orphanage in West Africa.
The unique event was not only a charity for orphans in Africa, but a special opportunity for dancers at Ovations and other organizations to perform a routine and gather feedback from specialists and professionals in the field.
Included in the judges were Beki Jackson, a graduate of Sapulpa and now the Dance Team Instructor for Oklahoma State University, and Michella Wilson, Bartlesville Varsity Head Coach, Miss Oklahoma Talent Winner for 3 years, and a member of “So You Think You Can Dance 2020,” plus other judges for group and solo performances.
Rachel Porter, owner of Ovations and orchestrator of the fundraiser, said she was “so pleased” with the amount raised.
“We raised $5,414, it was definitely more than anticipated for our first year and we are so thankful to know all the work everyone did was for such a great cause.”
Place of Refuge Global—or PRG for short—got it start in the fall of 2018, when the Solace Family Home was officially opened to 24 vulnerable, at-risk, and orphaned children. And became the employer to 9 Ivorian Staff Members.
In 2020, Place of Refuge Global was launched as a non-profit to continue the work of the Solace Family Home and future endeavors to partner with children and families in Cote d’Ivoire and beyond.
In 2022, PRG began meeting the needs of villagers nearby implementing the Country’s only and first Foster Care System.
Now Place of Refuge Global works with local churches, businesses, and individuals to continue the vision of creating a place of refuge for children in need. The work changes the trajectory of forgotten families in West Africa through education, health and housing. PRG serves widows and orphans and creates job opportunities for staff members.
Porter says they hope to continue the program on an annual basis and invite even more dance studios to participate.
You can learn more about Place of Refuge Global at placeofrefuge.global.
