Steamboat Springs — Dancing for a cause, Steamboat's own version of the popular TV show "Dancing with the Stars" will take place Friday night on the stage of Strings Music Pavilion.

In its fourth year, the event has proven itself successful in raising money for the Northwest Rocky Mountain Court-Appointed Special Advocates. The nonprofit provides and organizes services that help abused and neglected children who are involved in the legal system.

Set up differently than the TV reality show, Steamboat's friendly competition involves two types of winners: a grand winner and popular choice. The grand winner is the dance team that earns the most money.

According to event chair Nicole Stone, dancers are selected based on their involvement in the community then paired with a local choreographer.

Throughout the years, judges and community members have been impressed by the comical routines and technical moves that wow the audience.

"Every one I've seen, I've been impressed with the dancer's ability to put something great together," said Stone, who has been involved with the event for three years.

Each of the pairs — this year there is one group of three — has rehearsed since November for a few hours each week.

"It's been fun getting to know Jean" Labaree, said Deirdre Boyd, one of the community dancers. "I have a new friend, and we've been having a lot of fun rehearsing and planning out our routine."

Not only is it a competition, but CASA Dancing with the Stars also is about having fun and raising money for a good cause.

"People from the community who didn't know how to dance are able to get up on stage for a night to help a great cause," Stone said. "The fundraiser aspect of this is what keeps me wanting to do this each year."

According to Labaree, Boyd's choreographer, a lot of work goes into one public performance.

"It will be over in just a few short minutes," Labaree said. "That's the sad part because you want to do it again because it's something that you've worked on and had so much fun getting to know your fellow dancer."

Tickets for Steamboat's Dancing with the Stars are available at All That for $50.

To reach Audrey Dwyer, call 970-871-4229, email adwyer@ExploreSteamboat.com or follow her on Twitter @Audrey_Dwyer1