Kidz-4-Kidz expands to Monmouth County
At the age of 3, Ashley Lauren Vermeulen of Brick Township was diagnosed with Wilms Tumor (kidney cancer). Vermeulen is now 21 years old and studying dance in college, and the cancer survivor uses her talent to give back to the community.

Vermeulen co-founded Kidz-4-Kidz, a group that uses dance and theatrical performance to raise money to assist the families of children who have cancer.

"My heart aches for these children and their families so I made up my mind that I would use my dancing abilities to give back something of myself in order to help those in need," Vermeulen said. "I have been blessed with a second chance. Because of this life-changing experience, I want to do all that I can to help children going through the same ordeal."

Kidz-4-Kidz is based in Ocean County and currently has more than 100 members.

Kidz-4-Kidz is a branch of The Ashley Lauren Foundation, founded by Vermeulen's mother, Monica, in July 2005. The foundation provides financial and material assistance, as well as emotional support to New Jersey families of children suffering from pediatric cancer. Money raised through Kidz-4-Kidz goes to The Ashley Lauren Foundation.

Kidz-4-Kidz is now expanding into Monmouth County, and seeking people between the ages of 5 and 18 to showcase their talents in upcoming productions. The Monmouth County chapter's first performance will be a Talent Revue to be held in November in Colts Neck.

For individuals over the age of 18, Kidz-4-Kidz is seeking adults to help coordinate shows and to serve as an advisory board.

"We are very excited about expanding into Monmouth County. There are a lot of talented children in this area and we are hoping to generate interest in becoming part of this dynamic group. Not only will the children be given the opportunity to perform, but they will also be making a difference in the life of a child suffering from cancer," Monica Vermeulen said.

In the past, Kidz-4-Kidz has performed "Annie," "Seussical the Musical" and "Willy Wonka." The group will be performing "The Wiz" in February 2010. In addition to the annual musical, Kidz-4- Kidz performs in various musical revues and other events throughout the year.

An introductory meeting for the Monmouth County chapter will be held at 2 p.m. July 26 at Brandywine Assisted Living, Meridian Drive, Colts Neck.

For more information about the July 26 meeting, Kidz-4-Kidz or The Ashley Lauren Foundation, call Monica Vermeulen at 732-414-1625 or visit www.ashleylaurenfoundation. org.