1. Register now!
Contact Jill at (831) 768-7004 or email her to register and get pledge sheets.
2. Create a team
Find several friends, relatives or co-workers to dance with you. Dance teams will commit to at
least 10 hours of dancing, either together at one time or spread out over the day. Can’t find a team? We’ll find one for you!
3. Gather pledges
Ask friends, neighbors, family, and co-workers to help by making tax-deductible contributions. Each team is encouraged to raise at least $100 per dancer. 100% of the money goes to the Consuelo Buitrago Health Clinic in Nicaragua.
4. Dance!
Learn some moves, have fun and win prizes! Dance lessons and Dance Party are FREE with pledges ($100 suggested minimum) or make donation at the door.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join a team?
You can form your own team out of friends, coworkers, or family members. Or, you can contact us and we'll find a team for you.
Contact Jill at 831 768-7004 or jwinegardner@sbcglobal.net
Do all of my team members have to be there at the same time?
No, teams may spread their dancing throughout the day, as it is convenient to the team members.
Do all of my team members have to dance?
No. Of course we'd like as many people to dance as possible, but if some of your team members can only raise money for the event, that's ok.
Do I have to be on a team?
No, but it's more fun that way. Consider joining a team already forming. Contact us and we'll find a team for you. Contact Jill at 831 768-7004 or jwinegardner@sbcglobal.net
Can I bring kids?
Yes, this is a kid-friendly event. Kids are welcome to dance in all classes. Kids are encouraged to be team members.
Where do I get more flyers, sponsor sheets?
Contact Jill Winegardner at 831 768-7004 or jwinegardner@sbcglobal.net or download them the website.
Do I have to dance for 10 hours?
Your team is responsible for dancing a total of 10 hours. That means you may only dance for one or two hours, though you'll be having so much fun you'll want to dance more! But there are no penalties if you can't last the whole time.
What if I can't dance?
Then these lessons are for you! From noon to 8 pm there will be dance lessons oriented towards the total beginner. You don't need to know anything to participate. People of all abilities, ages and sizes get out there on the dance floor. And if you are sure you don't want to dance, you can make a donation anyway, and you are welcome to come watch or enjoy the performances in the evening.
What is the money used for?
100% of the money we raise goes to the Consuelo Buitrago Health Clinic which serves a poor neighborhood in Managua , Nicaragua under the direction of a group of dynamic grassroots organizers, the Consuelo Buitrago Women's Association. Each year the clinic sees thousands of patients at a cost of about $1.50 a visit. Every little bit helps the Health Clinic to provide primary care for women and children, along with a vaccination program, sanitation campaigns, public health education and training of health brigadistas . Our mission is to keep the health care clinic open, keep the small pharmacy stocked with essential medications and provide a living wage to health workers so they may support their families while supporting their community.
$3 vaccinates a child
$5 buys a doctor's visit
$25 trains a health promoter
$50 buys medicines for 10 people
$300 pays a doctor's salary for a month.
How much is the overhead for the event?
100% of the money raised goes to the health clinic. The venue, food, and supplies are all donated. The dance teachers and organizers also volunteer their time.
How can I make a donation?
You can use the PayPal button on this site, or you can send a check made out to the Central American Women's Fund to Jill Winegardner 629 Palm Ave , Watsonville CA 95076
Is my donation tax deductible?
Yes. Central American Women's Fund is a non-profit (501c3) organization.
Our non-profit tax ID # is 55-0895632
Who do I make my check out to?
Central American Women's Fund
How much does it cost to come to one dance lesson?
It is a sliding scale donation, $12-20.
How much does it cost to come for the dance party?
It is a sliding scale donation, $15-25.
What are the prizes?
The prizes are donated from local community members and vary year to year. They generally include gift certificates to bookstores and restaurants, services like photography sessions, massage and acupuncture, and a weekend stay at an inn or hotel.
How can I earn a prize?
You can earn a prize by raising the most money, dancing the longest, or being on a team which collectively raises the most money.
Where does the event take place?
418 Project at 418 Front Street in downtown Santa Cruz .
Where can I park?
There are two free 2-hour city parking lots on Front Street near the event. There is also metered street parking.
What about public transportation?
418 Project is also only one block from the downtown bus station. You can take the bus and walk.
Will there be food?
Yes, snacks and beverages will be provided. You'll probably want to bring or buy your own lunch or dinner if you are planning to stay all day.
Who are the dance teachers?
Local dance teachers volunteer their time to teach classes at the bailethon. The teachers vary year to year offering classes that include Samba, Hip Hop, Swing, African, Bellydance, Country Western, Irish, Salsa, Folk dancing, Capoeira and more!
Does this even happen every year?
Yes. Santa Cruz hosts the Bailethon each November.
How can I get more involved?
Contact Jill Winegardner at 831 768-7004 or jwinegardner@sbcglobal.net
Who can I call or write to find out more?
Jill Winegardner at 831 768-7004 or jwinegardner@sbcglobal.net
*Baile (by-leh): Dance!
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