VERO BEACH — Organizers have unveiled the lineup for the 14th annual Dancing with Vero’s Stars pairing local celebrities with professional dancers to benefit family support programs in Indian River County.
The popular fundraiser is set for May 16, 2026, at Riverside Theatre.
The event, hosted by the Indian River County Healthy Start Coalition and Riverside Theatre, features 10 couples competing in a night of ballroom performances. Proceeds support the coalition’s efforts to aid mothers, fathers, infants and families in the community.
This year’s participants include:
- Susan Adams, a community leader and Indian River County commissioner, dancing with Lance Sexton, a ballroom champion with more than 30 years of experience.
- Brian Hayes, owner of Hayes Construction Group and a fourth-generation local, paired with Elena Smirnova, known for her elegant ballroom style.
- Brandy Buckner, entrepreneur and owner of Sweet Desires, teaming up with Primo Garcia, whose background spans hip hop, ballroom and Broadway.
- David Imler, a mortgage broker, co-owner of Shack Shine and community volunteer, dancing with Karren Walter, a two-time Mirror Ball winner in the event.
- Paige Charbonneau, spa owner, with Edwin Rivera, a Zumba instructor and performer.
- Ryan Scarpa, an entrepreneur, attorney and real estate investor, partnered with Marianella Tobar, a Latin and ballroom specialist.
- Tina McCurry, a registered nurse and advocate, dancing with Jang Don, an international ballroom champion.
- Justin Stolaj, restaurateur and podcast host, with Alex Bacelo, a dancer and instructor.
- Melissa Zorc, athletic wear entrepreneur, paired with Dimas Caraballo, a Cuban-born Latin dance expert.
- Rob Vaccaro, longtime business owner, teaming with Mary Ida Spradlin, a top-ranked ballroom competitor.
The fundraiser has become a key event for the coalition, netting $230,000 last year and raising more than $3 million over the past 13 editions to provide unrestricted funds for local programs.
Tickets go on sale Dec. 2. For more details, visit irchealthystart.org or call 772-563-9118.
