Dancing for a Good Cause: Talent Show for Tots and Teens

When Ms. Ida Wheeler’s grandson was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at age 2, her family decided to bring him to the Golisano Children’s Hospital for help. Upon completion of his treatment, Wheeler searched for a way to give back to the hospital that helped save her grandson. For the past nine years, “Ms. Ida” has held the Talent Show for Tots and Teens fundraiser, to benefit the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Golisano Children’s Hospital at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

Wheeler’s goal is to raise $20,000 by June 30 with her third fundraiser of the year coming up April 28. These talent shows have been extremely successful in their efforts to raise money for the Golisano Children’s Hospital. This year, Ms. Wheeler plans to surpass her goal.

Wheeler attributes the success of these events to the children and families in the Greece community who participate in the shows, and many of them have had a personal connection with the hospital. Ms. Wheeler’s dreams become a reality every time she sees another child on stage. She takes pride in knowing that these children are not only dancing to better themselves, but also dancing to preserve the futures of children just like them.

“Seeing the little babies on the stage with smiles on their faces is the most rewarding part,” Wheeler said.

Ms. Ida’s Talent Show for Tots and Teens will be held at 5 p.m., Saturday, April 28, at 300 East River Road, Rochester. Tickets can be purchased at the door for $12. To find out more, please contact Ms. Ida Wheeler at iwheeler@alumni.rochester.edu.