SOUTH BEND — The Center for the Homeless in South Bend provides food and shelter to about 200 people a day. It's been in operation for 20 years and for 15 years Notre Dame graduate Regis Philbin has supported it.

"As I recall it used to be Gilbert's Men's Store years and years ago. So I've been involved and watched it grow over the years and I'm proud to be a part of the whole, the whole growth," said Philbin.

Regis helped kick off a 24-hour dance-a-thon at IU-South Bend Saturday.

"I can't thank you enough for what you are doing today and for your enthusiasm," Philbin told the crowd.

The dancers agreed to stay on their feet for 24 hours straight with financial support from sponsors.

"I was once homeless and I know how it is to come from being homeless and actually having a place to stay, you know. So I love to dance and I like to support anything that's going on the community," said Michael Hawkins.

Many of the dancers are current or former guests of the center who are happy to share their success stories with anyone who walks through the door. Other dancers just want to help out with the fundraising and keep the adrenaline pumping.

"I'm already having fun can't you see? I'm sweating! You should be over there with them, ain't that right camera man? Get over there and pop a lock on them. I love you guys, I'm out!" laughed dancer and homeless center volunteer Van Cassan.

Several local bands are scheduled to play for the dancers from 6 p.m. to Midnight on Saturday.

Everything has been donated so all the proceeds will go directly to the Center for the Homeless.