Brightside Child & Family Advocacy proudly announces the launch of Savannah’s Got Talent formerly known as Dancing with Savannah Stars, set to take place on May 1, 2026, at Victory North. The beloved annual event – entering its 18th year – has been reimagined with a new name and expanded performance format, while continuing the tradition of bringing together community leaders who will take the stage in support of Brightside Advocacy’s mission to provide advocacy and resources for children in foster care.

Brightside Advocacy will kick off the excitement with a Launch Party on January 13, 2026, at Treylor Park’s Pizza Party, where this year’s stars will be introduced, and fundraising efforts will officially begin. While the event is closed to the public, media representatives are invited to attend.

The 2026 Savannah’s Got Talent participants include:

• Courtney Stephenson: Content Creator and Mindset Coach 
• Jennifer Campbell: Computer Science Curriculum Developer for CodeHS
• Somi Benson-Jaja: Owner/Photographer of Shot By Somi 
• Adot Whitley: Co-founder of The Madigan Firm and Chatham County Commissioner District 6
• Will Peebles: Chatham County Assistant Director of Public Information
• Aaron Dixon: WTOC Lowcountry Bureau Reporter
• Kristen Updegraff: Southcoast Medical Family MD 
• Dave Summers: The Summers Group of NFM Lending Branch Manager
• Lisa Gutherie: CASA Volunteer
• Alex Jones: CASA Volunteer
• Naja Hayward-Dobson: Publisher/Founder/Strategist
• Lisle Engle: Singer/Songwriter/Music Producer/Emmy Nominated Sound Designer

Each Savannah’s Got Talent participant is committed to raising $15,000, with all proceeds supporting Brightside Advocacy’s three programs. Savannah CASA provides trained volunteers to advocate for children in foster care, ensuring their safety and well-being. Bright House provides a safe and supportive environment for supervised visitations and family reunification efforts. Brighter Futures helps older youth aging out of foster care transition into adulthood through mentorship, life skills training, and housing support. Funds raised will ensure that children, families, and young adults receive the advocacy and resources they need to build stable, thriving futures.

"This event is not only a fun and engaging way for our community to come together, but it also plays a vital role in raising critical funds to support children and families in need," said Kate Blair, Executive Director of Brightside Advocacy. "We are committed to ensuring that every child has the advocacy, stability, and resources necessary to thrive. Our team works tirelessly to empower volunteers, support families, and create opportunities that lead to brighter futures for those we serve."

For more information on sponsorship opportunities or to support this year’s dancers, visit brightsideadvocacy.org/sgt or contact [email protected].