News Release

WARSAW — Big Brothers Big Sisters recently celebrated its Kosciusko supporters and implored the community to become volunteers at its annual BIG Celebration.

The highlights of the Sept. 30 event were a fashion show featuring Bigs and Littles, along with the presentation of the prestigious Charles D. Smith Award to Trace Hansen.

Held at the Warsaw Community Church, this BBBS annual event specifically benefits its Kosciusko youth mentoring programs. The funds raised through this event go toward the organization and its mission to help local children reach their potential through professionally supported one-to-one mentor relationships.

For years, Kosciusko residents have come together during this one-of-a-kind evening to raise awareness, recruit, and gather funds for youth through a silent auction.

A major event of the night was the awarding of the Charles D. Smith Award. Established in 2015 and named in honor of its inaugural recipient, this accolade recognizes those who demonstrate passionate volunteerism, strong community leadership, and a lifelong commitment to serving others.

Now joining this list of altruistic, passionate, and invaluable leaders is local businessman, Trace Hansen, who is recognized for his numerous contributions to community-oriented, youth-focused, and charitable causes.

Trace remains heavily involved with local organizations such as the Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club, Joe’s Kids, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Baker Youth Club, the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce, and the Kosciusko County Visitor’s Bureau.

His business, Hansen’s Eastlake Skating Center, has been a staple in the community as Warsaw’s only skating rink. He’s a sports advocate, entrepreneur, and local leader who puts his heart into everything he does, evidenced by his exceeding generosity and frequent volunteerism.

Several matches from the program spoke at yesterday’s event. The 2025 National Big and Little Sister of the Year, Briana and Makia, shared updates with attendees on their journey to national recognition. The pair was then presented with BBBS letterman jackets sent from Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.

Afterwards, Big Sister Glennie shared her experience being matched with her Little Sister Jerica, whom she was matched with 20 years ago, and her Little Sister of 8 years, Coriana. Finally, guests were treated to a fashion show featuring Kosciusko Bigs, Littles, and children on the waiting list. With fun outfits and shiny new suits, it was all smiles as the pairs struck poses on the runway.

To learn more about how to get involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters in Kosciusko County, contact Tammy Smith at (574) 306-2178. To learn more about our volunteer opportunities, visit the group's website or call (260) 456-1600.

The post Big Brothers Big Sisters host 12th annual Kosciusko celebration appeared first on News Now Warsaw.

WARSAW — Prepare to move and groove, Kosciusko County!

The Warsaw Performing Arts Center, in collaboration with Kensington Digital Media, joyfully announces the revival of "Dancing with the Stars for Charity," a fundraising extravaganza set to sizzle this spring.

After a five-year pause, this electrifying event returns to the stage of WCHS PAC on Saturday, March 23. It promises to be a cornerstone fundraiser, benefiting 11 local charities. Each participating team has rallied behind a regional not-for-profit, standing as their advocate on the glittering stage. All proceeds from ticket sales will be divided among the nine charities, as well as supporting the WCHS Dance Department and Warsaw PAC.

A stellar lineup of eighteen luminaries from Kosciusko County will don their dancing shoes, collaborating with student choreographers from the WCHS Dance Department. Together, they'll deliver an evening brimming with live entertainment and heartfelt community engagement.

Among the local luminaries taking center stage are individuals like Shawn Brown (Lake City Living Magazine), Chris Cage (Willie 103.5), Sea Grandon (Atelier), Lakesha Green (Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts), Trace Hansen (Eastlake Skate Center), Mike King (107.3 WRSW), Travis McConnell (McConnell Law & B&B Courthouse Market), Chris Plack (Cardinal Services), Randy Polston (Combined Community Services), Laura Rothhaar (Kosciusko Convention & Visitors Bureau), Jim Smith (Kosciusko County Sheriff), and Suzanne Stokes (Warsaw Parks Department).

Additionally, shining stars from Warsaw Community Schools include Angela Dieleman (WCHS/Middle School Orchestra Teacher), Megan Dinse (WCHS Step One Teacher), Kayla May (Eisenhower BSL), Karri Morgan (Claypool 6th Grade Teacher), Emily Gough (WCHS Science), and Paul Zakaria (WCHS Senior Class Principal).

WCHS Dance Student Choreographers include Courtney Brower, Emma Bradford, Dakota Gardner, Ella Gonzalez, Michael Hertel, Malori McDaniels, Victoria Peloza, Kennedy Polk, Shannon Smith, and Kaelyn Stoffel.

The evening's emcee will be Kris Lake, the Morning Show Host from 107.3 WRSW and Brianne Stewart, WCHS Dance Instructor, will oversee the student participation.

Various not-for-profit organizations will be supported through the efforts of each dancing team. Charities chosen include Joe’s Kids, Magical Meadows, Combined Community Services, Kosciusko County TNR, Cardinal Services, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts, CASA of Kosciusko County and Kate’s Kart.

Tickets for "Dancing with the Stars for Charity" will be available for purchase starting in January.

The post “Dancing with the Stars for Charity” returns, announces lineup appeared first on News Now Warsaw.