Talent United competition is underway!

The United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region is thrilled to present Talent United, a vibrant showcase of the incredible talent residing within our communities. This exciting competition invites individuals of all ages, whether you live, work, or attend school in Dutchess or Orange counties, to share their unique skills. From singers and dancers to magicians and comedians, Talent United is a platform for our region's diverse artistry to shine, all while supporting the vital work of the United Way. Prepare to be amazed as we celebrate the power of community and the extraordinary talent that unites us.

Winners will be determined by popular vote and announced at the Celebration of Service event on May 7th, with a cash prize awarded.

Voting

March 31st - May 1

Questions?

If you have any questions, please contact Lauren Spangler at (845) 471-1900, ext. 3120 or lspangler@uwdor.org

  • Contest is open to anyone who lives, works or attends schools in Dutchess and Orange Counties.
  • Adults and children are eligible. Video submission must be no more than 3 minutes long.
  • Video submission must be received by UWDOR by March 27, 2025.
  • All contestants must fill out the media consent form.
  • For those under 18, a parent or guardian must provide consent.
  • All videos will be reviewed by a panel of judges who will determine our top entries.
  • Top entries will be announced on March 27, 2025.
  • The top entries will be voted on by our community (March 31st - May 1st).
  • You can share the link of your page on social media with family and friends.
  • Voting ends promptly on May 1, 2025 at 5:00 PM.
  • Winners will be determined by the highest number of votes received by May 1, 2025 at 5:00 PM.
  • All top contestants will be listed int he Celebration of Service program journal.
  • The top three contestants will be showcased at the Celebration of Service on May 7, 2025 at City Winery in Montgomery.
  • The top three winners will be invited as our guests (with a guest) to the Celebration of Service.
  • Prizes will be awarded tot he top three winners.
  • The top three winners will be featured in a UWDOR publicity Campaign.
  • The top three winners will receive a donation to a charity (501c3) of their choice located in either Dutchess or Orange County.

Our Contestants

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Bethany H's Headshot

Meet Bethany!

A homeschooling mom by day, Bethany’s creative passion is singing and writing songs that communicate truth and share hope. A lifelong maker of music both as a singer and violinist, the gift of a guitar in 2017 catapulted her into writing her own music. Writing came with a burden to share. Short on funds and time, Bethany began sharing live takes of her authentic songs on YouTube. As her online audience grew Bethany also began playing for a live audiences. Last year she began playing at coffeehouses and other events in the Northeast and New England. Her goals are to have her music professionally produced and recorded to reach an even wider audience and to share the hope of the gospel with as many as possible.

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Caroline S's Headshot

Meet Caroline!

My biggest inspiration with pursuing theater was when I was nine years old. My mom, who works in my school district, was approached by her co-worker who ran the drama club to see if I was interested in being the youth cast for their spring production of Les Miserables. When I went to the first rehearsal, I felt so inspired by the high school kids who were on stage with me. They were so kind and welcoming, and they were also so committed to performing and giving their all to the show. I remember the next spring when I was asked to be in their production of Pippin as Theo, the little kid, and I nearly started crying. I didn't know it at the time, but that was when I dropped all the sports I played to pursue theater. Their acceptance of my little self, while still being so focused on the story in their hands is what really drove me to become the performer I am today. Today, I am proud to share my talents with the same high school drama club as a junior, as well as connecting with the youth cast of our current show to hopefully give them even half of the effect that the kids before had on me. In the future, I hope to pursue musical theater in college and graduate with a BFA. I plan to audition for Broadway, tours, tv shows, and many other performing opportunities. My goals at the moment aren't any more than that I just want to perform, as that has been my passion and desire all along, and I just want to continue feeling the way I do when I perform.

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Christian L's Headshot

Meet Christian!

Christian Laura has been a rock/jazz drummer for 35 years. He has played in several local groups including his current outfit, Foxcutter, a Poughkeepsie-based progressive/avant-garde/psychedelic folk band. He is inspired by his dogs Linus and the Mandalorian.

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Rebecca R's Headshot

Meet Rebecca!

When my sisters and I were growing up in Connecticut, we were a part of the children's choir at our church.  As we went through Elementary, Middle and High School - even into college - the 3 of us found a love of music and performing.  I have always loved to sing and have tried to instill my love of music, theater and the arts in my son as well.  My favorite shows that I have been a part of are "I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change", "They're Playing Our Song", "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" and "Snoopy", "Godspell", and "A Chorus Line".  I have met some amazing people along the way that have become true friends.   I would love to be on Broadway or to hold a private event to raise money for charity.  Someday... 

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Skai S's Headshot

Meet Skai!

At just 11 years old, Skai Suarez has already made a name for herself in the world of martial arts. She began karate at the age of 3, inspired by watching skilled competitors and wanting to build confidence and strength. What started as a fun activity quickly became a passion, pushing her to train harder and compete at higher levels.

One of Skai’s most memorable moments was winning the GRAND CHAMPION title in the 10/11 Girls Fighting category at the AKA Warrior Cup 2025. It was a defining experience that reinforced her dedication to the sport and showed her how perseverance leads to success. In addition to this major win, she also placed 2nd in Extreme Weapons, Extreme Forms, and Musical Forms at the Hudson Valley Karate Competition. Her talent has also been recognized in the NASKA 2023 World Ratings, where she ranked in 9 & Under Class AA Black Belt Girls Musical Forms and Traditional Forms. Skai also earned a world champion title in 2024. Skai enjoys competing all over the world including Toronto, Florida, Chicago, Atlanta, and many more.

Beyond competitions, Skai enjoys using her skills to inspire others in her community. She has participated in local martial arts demonstrations and events, showing younger students that with dedication, they too can achieve great things.

Looking ahead, Skai dreams of achieving success in whatever path she chooses, whether in academics, leadership, or new challenges she takes on. She hopes to use her experiences to inspire others, showing that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible. Skai is excited for the future and all the opportunities that lie ahead.

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Thomas K's Headshot

Meet Thomas!

I started playing piano because I found it interesting and always had a desire to play.  I played the trumpet in elementary school and I didn't enjoy it and begged to learn piano instead.  Two years ago I started taking lessons and love it.  I can read music, but I can also hear it, and then play it; I learn by ear!  My teacher tells me this is a talent not everyone has.  I work thru my emotions playing the piano.  When I feel frustrated with school, or my siblings, or my parents, I play.  I let the fingers control the keys and let go of everything else.  Every night before bed I play a few pieces and it soothes me.  I've recently added learning the guiater to my lesson schedule and look forward to joining the jazz band in the high school, as they have a place for piano players.  I hope to continue learning about music and love using it to entertain people.  Ever holiday my mother hosts dinner, I play songs accordingly, and even make a program for our guests.   

Event Details

Event Date
Thu, May 1, 2025 | All day
845-471-1900;3120