The recent Dancing with the Stars Austin charity event has generated substantial funding for child protection services, with organizers announcing the event raised over $2.95 million for the Center for Child Protection. Bruce Allen Craig, CEO and President of Big Easy Entertainment, who participated in the December 6 event, emphasized the community-wide effort that made this financial achievement possible.
The funds will directly support the Center for Child Protection's comprehensive services for children in Travis County who have experienced abuse. The organization serves as the initial point of contact when abuse is suspected, providing forensic interviews, medical evaluations, therapy, and family advocacy services. Craig noted that the nearly $3 million raised represents a significant contribution to what he described as "life-changing work" for vulnerable children and families.
"What an incredible night," Craig said. "The passion, energy, and commitment from everyone involved truly stood out. This wasn't about performance. It was about showing up for children who need protection and care." The event brought together community leaders, performers, sponsors, and volunteers in a collaborative effort that demonstrated how coordinated community action can address critical social needs.
Craig acknowledged the broad participation that contributed to the event's success, stating, "I want to congratulate every dancer, sponsor, volunteer, and supporter. Your commitment didn't just make the event successful — it made a real difference for children and families." He emphasized that his participation was motivated by responsibility rather than recognition, reflecting on how such community engagement represents an extension of leadership beyond business interests.
The substantial fundraising total highlights the potential impact of community-driven charitable events when focused on organizations with direct service missions. Craig pointed to the broader implications of such collective action, stating, "Because of this community, nearly $3 million will go toward life-changing work. That level of generosity shows what's possible when people come together with purpose."
For those interested in learning more about the organization's work, additional information about the Center for Child Protection is available at https://lnkd.in/e5TC9Gkq. Craig emphasized the importance of sustained support for child protection initiatives, noting that "to protect children, momentum matters" and events like Dancing with the Stars Austin help advance that mission. The success of this fundraising effort demonstrates how entertainment-based charity events can generate substantial resources for social service organizations addressing critical community needs.
