Another fundraiser for the Columbia Valley Hospice Society is about to hit Invermere with toe-tapping sounds and body-shaking moves.

A group of local Zumba instructors from across the valley, headed by Julie Parent, will hold a Zumba in the Park session on Saturday, May 25th to raise money for the society.

“I thought it would be a good idea for a fundraiser. The hospice society is something there is a need for and I feel strongly that it’s a good program,” said Mrs. Parent. “We’re super excited about it and we’ve had a positive response.”

Zumba is a dance fitness program created by a Colombian dancer and choreographer in the 1990s. Participant numbers have grown exponentially ever since.

“Zumba has become popular over the last few years. It’s a great way to get in shape and it’s fun,” said Mrs. Parent. “Zumba is fitness for everybody. You can make it what you need it to be.”

Hospice society executive director Maria Kliavkoff  echoed Mrs. Parent’s sentiments.

“It’s such a fun way to get in shape,” said Ms. Kliavkoff. “We’re just grateful to Julie and all the instructors.”

The outdoor event will be in Mt. Nelson Athletic Park in Invermere.

“What better place to be doing Zumba than in the park,” said Ms. Kliavkoff. “It’ll be gorgeous.”

Mrs. Parent said she’s not yet sure how many people to expect, but the more the merrier.

“I’m hoping we get a lot of people out. I’m hoping it doesn’t rain,” said Mrs. Parent. “If it’s nice, everybody wants to be outside.”

Zumba enthusiasts and newcomers alike are welcome to come and participate. Entry is by donation and all proceeds go directly to the hospice society.

Colleen Wagner, Shawna Rehaume and Masha Salimovskaya are the other Zumba instructors at the fundraiser. Home Hardware is donating its festival stage for the event.

Zumba in the Park will run from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Participants should bring running shoes, water and a hat.