By: Fitzroy Harris
Milligan’s step team, the Stompede, along with One7 reenacted the classical story “The Wizard of Oz” in a dance performance Friday night in the Gregory Centre. The event was used to raise money for youths in Johnson City.
Beginning a year and a half ago, One7 is an inner city ministry for kids, teenagers and their families. One7 offers a Christian perspective in counseling and mentorship to these lower income-earning families.
The theme of the show “Steppin into Oz” showcased the creative display of the Stompede’s inventive choreography.
President for the Stompede Albany Kelly and dramatizer of the wicked witch said that the main purpose for the show was “to raise funds for One7 with efforts to strengthen connection between both groups.”
The Stompede was formed by a small group of Milligan students in the spring of 2011. Spearheaded by Kelly, the Stompede incorporated ‘stepping’ rather than a cheerleading based aspect.
Sophomore and member of the leadership team Gretchen Allie volunteers for One7.
“The original One7 ministry is in Charlotte, NC.,” Allie said.
Thirty college students from Milligan and ETSU provide assistance to lower income families in the Carver apartment housing in Johnson City. Student volunteers assists by means not limited to encouraging spiritual life and giving counsel to kids and their families, helping kids with homework and providing meals.
Even though it was a free event opened to the public, donations were accepted in aid of One7. The funds derived from the event goes towards bible study, buying food and other necessary amenities for a healthy living for these families Allie said.
Kelly who is a senior and graduates this May said that the Stompede hopes to make the show an annual event.
The show raised over $1,000 that is used to fund the One7 ministry.
milliganstampede
