The fitness staff at the Apache Junction Multi-Generational Center on Oct. 16 hosted the 7th annual Pretty in Pink Dance Party to benefit breast cancer education and awareness.

With not having this event in 2020 due to the pandemic, we didn’t know what kind of turnout to expect. We had an astounding 85 participants take part in the 1.5-hour-long dance party led by four of our amazing Zumba instructors.

We were also live on Facebook for the first time and had family members watching from as far away as the Philippines. Among the participants, young and old, were several breast-cancer survivors.

A big “thank you” goes out to the many businesses, non-profits and community members that supported the event by donating almost 40 raffle items in value of over $1,500. Donations from local businesses included B&B Apache Cactus, Starbucks, Superstition Mountain Museum, The Handlebar, Dirt Water Springs, Los Gringos and Be Grace Movement Therapies. Other donations came from Soroptomist International of the East Valley, Pura Vida Grinds, Culvers, LoAnn Salon, Texas Roadhouse and Mary Kay consultant Beth Turner.

Participants who gave a monetary donation the day of the event, wore pink or brought a friend, were given a raffle ticket to be put in the drawing for an item of their choice. We also had free giveaways for all participants thus ensuring no one went home empty handed.

This was the first year we added the direct “donate” link to our Facebook event so folks could donate online directly to The National Breast Cancer Foundation. Due to the success of this event, the NBCF received a donation of more than $1,447.

This is our fifth year sending all donations to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

As the event coordinator, I am at a loss for words at the level of support and generous donations from folks in and around our community, especially during this critical time when community members have lost their jobs or budgeting very carefully. It just goes to show that even when life is hard, we never stop supporting one another.

For other program and service information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 480-983-2181 or go to apachejunctionaz.gov/parks.

Editor’s note: Jill Ruot is the city of Apache Junction’s recreation coordinator.