Anyone is welcome to break out their dance moves or learn some new ones at “Shake It for SACIS.”

The event is from 6 to 10 p.m. today in the University Ballroom in the Martin Luther King Jr. University Union. Proceeds will go to the Sexual Assault Counseling and Information Service, which provides 24-hour services to those affected by sexual assault, sexual abuse and sexual harassment. The dances being taught include bachata, belly dancing, cha cha, hip-hop, line dancing, salsa, swing, waltz and Zumba.

Previous skills are not necessary, as the lessons will be elementary. A dance partner is not mandatory. Melanie Mills, a communications studies instructor and member of the SACIS planning committee, said this is the second annual “Shake It for SACIS.”

Funding for social services has been cut by the state, so they have been doing frequent fundraising, Mills said.

There are three rooms holding three types of dances, and three sessions throughout the night.

“People can float from one room to another; it will be informal,” Mills said.

The EIU Dancers, Jolie, Rhythm and X-tacy, and others will perform between each session. Performers will demonstrate the various types of dances being taught.

“Belly dancing will be popular, as will waltzing,” Mills said.

The lessons will be taught by different teachers-including dance teachers from the community–and also people who want to share their skills.

“One couple took waltz classes and are donating their time for the event,” Mills said.

Catherine Miller, fundraiser and event planner for SACIS, said they have added new fundraising activities they did not do last year.

“There will be a 50/50 raffle, as well as a buy a chance raffle, with donated gift cards from Wal-mart, Cross County Mall, RP Lumber and a tattoo parlor,” Miller said.

There will also be a “sell your selfless deed” program to raise money.

“People can sign up to be sold to SACIS, to do something silly like wear their shoes on the wrong feet or wear their clothes inside out,” Miller said. “I am bringing some skirts for guys to wear for the evening.”

Robyn Carr,interim director offraternity and sorority programs,will perform “I’m a Little Tea Pot”if the price is right.

There will also be an opportunity to win door prizes, like baseball hats, t-shirts, purses and more.

Sponsors for the event include RP Lumber, Coles-Moultrie Electric Cooperative, Pilson Auto Center, Ice House Bar and Grill, Topa Farms, Charleston Jr. Women’s Club, Delta Zeta and Jeannie Spivey. A suggested donation of $5 will be collected at the door.

Ashley Holstrom can be reached at 581-7942 or [email protected]