Contributed EVENING OF COMPETITION — Participants in Saturday's Battle of the Ballroom included, from left, front, Joe Wallace and Tricia Truax, second runner-up; Tiffany Luckino and Caleb Cooper, winners of the Glitter Ball Trophy; and Cassidy Sansone and Mike Biasi, first runner-up; back, Samantha Ebert and Eric Timmons, People's Choice Award; Joel John and Ruari Stoll, Judge's Choice Award; Lydia Boyd and Jason Lucarelli, Judge's Choice Award; and James Lash and Kaylee Miller, Judge's Choice Award. Proceeds raised during the evening will benefit the United Way of Jefferson County and the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley.

STEUBENVILLE — The United Way of Jefferson County and the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley hosted the first Battle of the Ballroom Saturday, bringing together community members, local businesses and supporters for a night filled with energy, entertainment and purpose at a sold-out venue.

Held at the St. Florian Event Center, the evening featured local dancers who stepped out of their comfort zones to perform in front of a packed room, all in support of strengthening the Ohio Valley. Each dancer dedicated time and effort to raise funds and awareness for programs and partner agencies supported by the local United Ways.

“This event is so much more than just dancing,” said Marci Snyder-Crawford, executive director of the United Way of Jefferson County. “It’s about people coming together to support one another and make a real difference across the Ohio Valley.”

The Glitter Ball Trophy was awarded to Tiffany Luckino and Caleb Cooper.

Several other awards were presented during the evening, including second runner-up Joe Wallace and Tricia Truax; first runner-up Mike Biasi and Cassidy Sansone; and the People’s Choice Award, Eric Timmons and Samantha Ebert.

Judges’ Choice Awards were presented to Jason Lucarelli and Lydia Boyd, Joel John and Ruari Stoll and James Lash and Kaylee Miller.

From the planning stages to the final performance, the night showcased the power of collaboration and community spirit, officials said.

“We were so excited for the first year of the Battle of the Ballroom and to partner with the United Way of Jefferson County,” said Staci Stephen, executive director of the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley. “It was a great night where everyone came together to help more than 40 programs across eight counties.”

Proceeds from the evening were split between the two area United Ways. The United Way of Jefferson County serves Jefferson County, while the United Way of the Upper Ohio Valley serves seven counties, including Brooke and Hancock. The money will directly support impact areas of the organizations, ensuring help is available when it is needed most.

“This is what it means to Live United,” Snyder-Crawford added. “Every dollar raised stays local, helping our neighbors, our families and our future.”

Helping make the evening possible were several area sponsors, including Fort Steuben Maintenance; Valley Converting; Team Automotive; Hazlett, Burt & Watson Inc.; Security National Trust Co.; Cedar One Realty; Interstate Waste; Trinity Health System; Cardinal Operating Co.; JWC; and Jarvis Law, along with other community partners.

Eric Fithyan, owner and director of Chambers and James Funeral Home, and Jaime Baker of WTOV-TV served as masters of ceremonies.

“The United Way extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who participated, supported and believed in the mission. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected Ohio Valley,” Snyder-Crawford said.

Officials said they are hopeful the Battle of the Ballroom will become an annual event.