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The following was submitted by Kim McGowen, annual giving officer for Stanly Health Foundation, host of Stanly County’s “Dancing With the Stars.”

The excitement is building as the 12th annual Dancing with the Stars event supporting Butterfly House Children’s Advocacy Center draws near. This year’s event will feature an impressive lineup of local talent, including the dynamic duo, Nicole and Brandon Wallace.
Nicole Wallace is a proud Stanly County native who has lived here for most of her life.
A graduate of North Stanly High School, Nicole furthered her education at High Point University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Visual Merchandising Design.
With a lifelong passion for music and the arts, Nicole spent her formative years in dance practice, piano lessons, and various sports. Today, she works as an interior designer at Sara Lynn Brennan Interiors in Charlotte and resides in Albemarle with her husband, Brandon.
When she isn’t working, Nicole enjoys kickboxing and playing pickleball.
Fun fact: Nicole’s maiden name is actually Papanikolopoulos, but it was shortened to Poolos. She is thrilled to participate in this year’s Stanly County Dancing with the Stars to help support the Butterfly House.
Brandon Wallace, also born and raised in Stanly County, attended North Stanly High School and graduated from Western Carolina University, where he was an enthusiastic tour guide.
After college, Brandon moved to Charlotte to begin his career in technology. He currently works as a senior data engineer at Wells Fargo in Charlotte and lives in Albemarle with his wife, Nicole.
In his spare time, Brandon enjoys playing pickleball, basketball and spending time with his family at the beach.
A fun fact about Brandon is that his wife, Nicole, is a triplet.
He is equally excited to take part in Stanly County Dancing with the Stars and support the Butterfly House.
Nicole and Brandon’s participation in the event highlights their dedication to their community and their desire to give back. Their commitment to supporting the Butterfly House, which provides essential services to children and families affected by abuse, underscores their shared values and passion for making a positive impact.
The Dancing with the Stars event will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 7 at the Stanly County Agri-Civic Center. This year’s theme, “Magic of Motown,” promises an evening of soulful music and captivating dance performances. With 11 dance teams perfecting their routines and engaging in creative fundraising efforts, the night is set to be a spectacular celebration of talent and philanthropy.
Tickets are now available, and the community is encouraged to come out and support Nicole, Brandon and all the participants as they dance for a cause. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Butterfly House Children’s Advocacy Center, providing vital services to children and families in need.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit stanlydancing.com.