MOMbies Dance to Donate

MOMbies Dance to Donate is a philanthropic initiative spearheaded by a collective of mothers who transform into "ghastly zombies" to raise funds for metastatic breast cancer research through dance performances. Originating on Halloween night in 2016  the initiative supports the Cancer Couch Foundation. As of Halloween 2023, Mombies Dance to Donate had successfully raised over $180,000, creating a cherished tradition in their New England community.

History
The inception of MOMbies Dance to Donate dates back to the fall of 2016 when Terry Davis, the creator and director of MOMbies, envisioned a flash mob of spooky moms surprising their kids and neighbors on Halloween. This idea soon evolved into regular rehearsals masked as Zumba sessions, girls' nights out, or book club meetings. On Halloween night, dressed in homemade costumes, the moms emerged as zombies from bushes, driveways, and front porches, enchanting the neighborhood as they danced. The MOMbie Movement was born.

The Cancer Couch Foundation
The core mission of MOMbies is to 'dance to donate,' aimed at raising funds for metastatic breast cancer research through the Cancer Couch Foundation. Through their captivating performances, they provide a platform for community engagement, fun, and support towards an important cause. The Cancer Couch Foundation was founded in 2015 by Dr. Rebecca Timlin-Scalera who was battling stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. The foundation funds research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Memorial-Sloan-Kettering. Dr. Scalera passed away in 2019.

The MOMbie Movement
The MOMbies initiative has transformed from a bunch of neighborhood moms into a movement of purposeful play and meaningful contributions towards breast cancer research. Their journey reflects the power of community, creativity, and the impactful difference collective action can make. Over the years, the MOMbies have become a cherished tradition in their New England town, fostering lifelong friendships among participants and resonating across the community. Their dance performances have become a symbol of hope, joy, and the indomitable spirit of collective action against breast cancer.

Virality
The MOMbies' dance performances, shared online, have become a viral sensation, encapsulating love, kindness, and community spirit. Their videos serve as a rallying point, encouraging viewers to contribute to the cause and spread the word further. MOMbies Dance to Donate have attracted national    and international attention, earning global news recognition.

Choreography
The choreography, a significant aspect of the MOMbies' performances, has been orchestrated by Vinny Patino, and as of 2023, Paul Herman, who have also contributed

Achievements
Since its inception, MOMbies has seen their videos go viral, reaching millions and raising over $180,000 for metastatic breast cancer research as of 2023. Their annual Halloween performances have evolved, featuring new music and choreography, and engaging various segments of the community including Fairfield University students and local first responders.