From Dance Dad to Dancing Star!
CDC Dance Dad Competing for a Meaningful Cause on May 9, 2025.
At Charleston Dance Center, we are more than just a studio—we are a family. And when one of our own takes on a new challenge, especially one that blends dance, community, and a great cause, we rally behind them!
We are thrilled to support Lowcountry Dancing with the Stars contestant Jamie Camilo, a dedicated dance dad and the general manager of Rick Hendrick BMW and MINI of Charleston. Jamie is stepping onto the ballroom floor at the Charleston Gaillard Center on May 9 for the American Lung Association’s Charleston Oxygen Ball. This incredible event raises awareness and funds for lifesaving research, health equity initiatives, and local lung health effor
A Dance Dad in the Spotlight
Jamie is no stranger to the world of dance—at least from the sidelines! His 9-year-old daughter, Avalyn, has been part of Charleston Dance Center since their family moved to Charleston in 2021. Within their first week in town, Avalyn auditioned for the Mini Mini team, and the Just Dance community quickly became their family. Now a Mini Company dancer competing at the national level, Avalyn has made her mark— and now, it’s Jamie’s turn to step into the spotlight. He’s trading the audience for the dance floor as he competes against four other local celebrities for the title of Lowcountry Dancing with the Stars Champion.
He’ll be paired with a professional from International Ballroom Dance Studios and performing an original ballroom routine, all while working toward an ambitious fundraising goal. This year’s theme, Cowboy Couture, promises an entertaining and energetic performance that Jamie hopes will make his daughter—and the entire dance dad community—proud.
A Special Family Moment
Adding to the excitement, Avalyn won’t just be cheering from the audience—she’ll also be dancing in the show as part of the entertainment performances! It’s a full-circle moment for the Camilo family, as father and daughter share the stage in a unique and unforgettable way.
When asked about seeing her dad compete after watching him support her all these years, Avalyn shared:
“It’s definitely going to be weird watching from the crowd, but I’m excited to watch him! I think he’s going to do great!”
And has she been helping him prepare?
“Oh yes! We have practiced his choreography in the living room a few times. I told him to have fun and, most importantly, not to embarrass me!”
Dancing for a Meaningful Cause
Beyond the glitz and glamour of the competition, Jamie is dancing for something deeply personal—his father, who passed away from mesothelioma in 2017. His participation in the Oxygen Ball is a heartfelt tribute, raising funds to support lung disease research and awareness.
“Nearly everyone has been touched by lung disease or knows someone who has,” Jamie shared in a recent interview with Holy City Sinner. “For me, my dad is my ‘why.’ I’m honored to be dedicating my performance to him.”
Supporting Jamie and the Oxygen Ball
We couldn’t be more excited to cheer Jamie on as he takes on this challenge! His dedication to our dance community and this meaningful cause is truly inspiring. If you’d like to support his journey, you can contribute to his fundraising efforts and learn more about the event here.
And on May 9, the roles will officially reverse—Avalyn will be the one cheering from the audience, proud as ever to see her dad take the stage!
Good luck, Jamie! Your CDC family is behind you every step of the way!
