Center for Child Protection Announces Celebrity Cast for the 20th Anniversary of Dancing with the Stars Austin
AUSTIN, Texas, May 21, 2026– The Center for Child Protection is proud to announce the celebrity cast for the 20th anniversary of Dancing with the Stars Austin (DWTSA), presented by Mercedes-Benz of Austin and Jon & Michael Adams.
Led by event co-chairs Michael McCollum Adams, Jessica Balladares-Bennett and Jessica McCoy, this year’s Dancing with the Stars Austin will celebrate two decades of community impact. On December 5, 2026, nine Austinites – ranging from former professional athletes to well-known entrepreneurs, chefs and community leaders- will compete for the Mirrorball Trophy while raising support and awareness for children and families impacted by abuse in Travis County.
Dancing with the Stars Austin, is the Center’s most successful event of the year. In 2025, $2.95 million was raised to directly support its mission. Since 2007, DWTSA has raised more than $25.5 million to fund resources and programs for the Center.
“Reaching our 20th year is a huge moment for us and all of the supporters who have been a part of this event over the years from former dancers, emcees and judges to donors and volunteer,” said Michael Torres, CEO of the Center for Child Protection. “They’ve helped us get to where we are today, and it’s incredible to see this event continue to grow year after year. It’s one of my favorite nights of the year, and a favorite for many others, and we can’t wait to see this year’s cast and co-chairs advocate for the children we serve in such a fun and meaningful way.””
The 2026 Celebrity Cast Includes:
• Blair Baxter, Owner and Founder of Pecos Jane Vintage
• Kim Chappell, Chief Brand Officer at Bobbie and a Forbes 50 Most Entrepreneurial CMO
• Alicia Golinghorst, Community Volunteer and Philanthropist
• Marquise Goodwin, Author, Artist and Former NFL & Olympic Athlete
• JJ Gottsch, CEO of the Austin Gamblers
• Kristina Lackey, Children’s Book Author, Ranch Owner and Community Volunteer
• MJ McFarland, Principal at Christies International Real Estate and former NFL Player
• Erin Stewart, Founder of Savor + Sweat
• Saine Wong, Chef & Owner of Toshokan
This year’s cast members will be paired with professional dancers and will begin training in preparation for an unforgettable show on Saturday, December 5th at the JW Marriott Austin.
For more information on the event, full dancer bios, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, please visit dancingATX.org. For additional questions, email dancingatx@centerforchildprotection.org.
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ABOUT THE CENTER: The Center for Child Protection is a nationally accredited children’s advocacy center and the only nonprofit in Travis County involved in the investigation and prosecution of crimes against children. For over 30 years, the Center has provided a safe, child-friendly facility where children impacted by abuse or violence can receive trauma-informed services, including recorded forensic interviews, therapy, and medical care. The Center’s vision is to end the cycle of child abuse through education, advocacy, and community support, which is why the Center also offers prevention education and training programs. All Center services are free of charge and offered in both English and Spanish. To learn more visit centerforchildprotection.org.
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Media Contact
Genesis Moncada
PR & Communications. Manager
512-600-2406
gmoncada@centerforchildprotection.org
