The 4-H Teen Leadership Corps (TLC) hosted a community barn dance at the Clark County Fairgrounds Small Animal Barn on Saturday night, Sept. 13. More than 100 people attended, with kids from elementary school through high school gathering for an evening of dancing, music and fun. Admission was a suggested $3 donation at the door, and swing dance lessons were offered to all attendees before the main dancing began.

In collaboration with TLC, members of the Moapa Valley High School Robotics team provided the music. A mix of country, swing, line dances and slow songs kept the crowd moving throughout the night. TLC members decorated the barn by stringing lights across the rafters. Cold water was provided to keep dancers refreshed.

The barn dances serve a dual purpose: raising funds to support community programs that promote mental health, especially among local teens, while also offering a safe and positive environment for young people to gather.

“My favorite part of helping the TLC kids plan these barn dances is watching their creativity and leadership shine through,” said TLC advisor Lacey Tom. “They take ownership of every detail, from choosing which dances to teach and planning decorations to learning how to welcome guests, and it’s inspiring to see their confidence grow along the way.”

Tom added that the dances benefit not only the youth who organize them but also the broader community. “They give families and young people a chance to connect face-to-face, step away from screens and share in a tradition that brings people together. For the kids who attend, it’s an opportunity to build friendships, try something new and feel like they are truly part of something bigger than themselves.”

TLC holds these dances a couple of times a year. A minimum of eight adult chaperones is required for each event, and volunteers play a vital role. Adults interested in helping are encouraged to contact advisors Lacey Tom or Dianna Walker.

“We couldn’t do these events without our incredible volunteers,” Tom said.