LUNG FORCE Sunset Soiree Celebrates 20th Anniversary with a Twist: “It’s Dancing with the Stars!”
Five local celebrity dancers to compete in American Lung Association’s first-ever ballroom dancing fundraiser in Florida
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – (April 7, 2025) – On Friday, May 30, the American Lung Association in Florida will host its 20th annual LUNG FORCE Sunset Soiree, presented by Title Sponsor Memorial Cancer Institute, at the Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale. This year’s event, however, has a major twist—or rather, a twist chasse. That’s because five dedicated members of the community have signed on to raise awareness and funds in a unique event that will have them competing on the dance floor to win the Celebrity Spotlight Award, powered by Florida Power & Light Company. Funds raised support the Lung Association’s efforts to end lung cancer and lung disease through local programs, advocacy efforts and groundbreaking research.
“We are excited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the LUNG FORCE Sunset Soiree, an incredible campaign that is funding groundbreaking research and advancing early detection initiatives to save lives,” said LUNG FORCE Sunset Soiree event co-chairs Drs. Caren and Glenn Singer. “This year’s Sunset Soiree will transport our guests to the Dancing with the Stars ballroom floor for an unforgettable evening. Thank you to our celebrity dancers, event sponsors, donors and attendees for making bold strides toward a world free of lung cancer and lung disease.”
Over the course of eight weeks, the five celebrity dancers will practice diligently with professionals from Fred Astaire Dance Studio Fort Lauderdale to prepare original ballroom dance routines to delight guests. Alexis Frazier, Emmy-award winning journalist, and anchor for the Channel 10 News team, will preside as the master of ceremonies. In addition to bringing enthusiasm and star power to the stage, each celebrity performer has a fundraising goal of $15,000—the equivalent of funding 30 full days of lung cancer research.
The dancer lineup features:
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Danielle Williams – a medical sales executive who is dedicating her dance to family members impacted by lung disease. “Dancing for a cause combines the joy of movement with the noble pursuit of supporting lung health initiatives.”
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Brooke Boles – luxury real estate agent and host of the Emmy-nominated show, “The American Dream,” whose breathwork practice connects her to the mission. “Dancing is not just an art form—it’s an expression of vitality, resilience and joy in vibrant sunny weather in the heart of South Florida’s luxurious backdrop.”
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Matt Maxim – South Florida area manager Tito’s Handmade Vodka whose own journey with asthma gives him firsthand insight into the daily battles for breath that many people have. “Although I’m no professional dancer, I’m willing to put on my dance shoes for this cause and step into the spotlight—because every breath matters.”
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Kellie Misita – co-owner of Wonderland, created in partnership with Scottie Dunseath. “I was nominated and inspired by my friend, Andrea Eastaugh. I’m committed to raising awareness for the Lung Association in memory of Andrea’s beautiful mother and my own grandmother, Janet, who was a significant role model in my life.”
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Olivia Berrios – high school senior who is passionate about community service and leadership and is dancing in honor of her grandmother, Judy, who has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). “I’m looking forward to educating the younger generation on the Lung Association’s mission.”
Cast a vote and donate to your favorite dancer here.
Themed cocktails by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits;
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A tempting silent auction presented by Niefeld Wealth Planning of Raymond James;
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Interactive photo ops by UKG;
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Inspirational mission moment by Memorial Cancer Institute; and more!
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. More people die of lung cancer than colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. Here in Florida, more than 18,500 people are estimated to be diagnosed with lung cancer this year, and nearly 10,100 deaths from lung cancer are predicted.
However, there is hope. More Americans than ever are surviving lung cancer. The survival rate has increased by nearly 40 percent in the last decade. Funding research, encouraging lung cancer screening and reducing stigma around the disease saves lives.
For tickets or more information about the event, visit www.LUNGFORCESunsetSoiree.org.
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About the American Lung Association
The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org. To support the work of the American Lung Association, find a local event at Lung.org/events.
