A Friendship Fueled by Fundraising: Meet the Bowling for Ballet Co-Chairs
When Sara Pirtle and Elizabeth Wilkinson first met through a mutual connection in Nashville, they had no idea their friendship would grow into a shared commitment to Rejoice School of Ballet—and that they’d become the dynamic duo behind one of its biggest annual events.
From Volunteer Beginnings to Leadership Roles
Their journey began when they both joined the Junior League of Nashville. Tasked with selecting a nonprofit for their volunteer placement, they each chose Rejoice. Starting as weekly classroom assistants, their involvement quickly deepened. They soon found themselves helping with recitals, sewing costumes, and even crafting props for performances. It didn’t take long before the Rejoice team invited them to take on more, eventually leading to their roles as co-chairs for the school’s fundraising events.
Bowling for Ballet: A New Kind of Fundraiser
At the center of their volunteer work is Bowling for Ballet, now in its fourth year. What started as a new post-pandemic idea to bring people together after a long stretch of virtual events has become a fun, community-driven tradition. The shift from formal luncheons to bowling nights made the event more family-friendly and accessible, and it’s only grown from there.
"This event is so special to me because I love how fun it is," said Elizabeth. "It’s also humbling to see how many friends and family members have supported it over the years—through sponsoring, donating, or just showing up to bowl."
For Sara, watching the event evolve from a simple idea shared over wine and charcuterie to a beloved summer tradition has been especially rewarding.
"I have a front-row seat to seeing how it's grown, and knowing it’s making a positive impact in our community is truly humbling," she said.
Friendship That Grows Alongside the Mission
Their friendship has grown alongside the event. Over the years, they've celebrated marriages, supported each other through job changes, and welcomed children into their families. While their babies are still too young to understand what Rejoice is, both women are excited to share its mission with their kids as they grow.
“I can’t wait to bring Betty to her first Rejoice production,” Elizabeth said. “I want her to experience the beauty of ballet and understand the dedication it takes.”
Sara added, “I look forward to teaching Tucker that God puts us here to share His love with others—and that’s what Rejoice is all about.”
A Cause Close to the Heart
For both women, the mission of Rejoice is what keeps them coming back. Whether it’s raising funds for tuition, providing free dancewear, or opening doors to opportunity, they believe Rejoice uses every dollar wisely to serve as many students as possible.
"I believe every child deserves the chance to experience the joy, discipline, and self-expression that dance offers," Sara said. "It’s giving them a chance to shine and feel supported.”
As for this year’s event? Both co-chairs are feeling energized.
“I love seeing all the sponsors, donors, and volunteers just have fun together,” said Elizabeth. “And I always keep an eye out for former Rejoice students and teachers.”
Sara is especially excited about surpassing early fundraising goals. “We’re just getting started,” she said.
Looking ahead, both women hope to continue growing the event and spreading the word about Rejoice throughout Middle Tennessee. Whether that means multiple nights of bowling or launching entirely new fundraising ideas, they’re committed to striking down barriers to the arts—one pin at a time.
Bowling for Ballet takes place every July, raising essential funds to ensure Rejoice is prepared to serve every child who enrolls in the fall.
Would you like to find out how you can help? Click here to learn more.
