More than 100 people showed their various dance moves on Saturday, Feb. 23 for the purpose of raising money for Southern Illinois University Ewardsville’s seventh annual dance marathon.
The University raised a total of more than $40,000 for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in the St. Louis area, which is part of the nationwide “For the Kids” (FTK) movement.
Dance Marathon is a student-driven, year-round effort to raise funds and awareness for the local children's hospitals, St. Louis Children’s Hospital and SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center.
“The fundraiser is special because all of our proceeds go directly to Children’s Miracle Network,” said Lexi Middleton, a senior majoring in the speech language pathology and audiology program and morale director on the dance marathon’s executive board. “Every dollar is given to the cause. Additionally, it is special, because several children serve as ambassadors for Children’s Miracle Network. Visiting the SIUE campus this past weekend was Tilly McRoberts.
“Tilly energized the audience by igniting the fire to fundraise for medical needs,” continued Middleton. “Some of the treatments that these children undergo have astronomical price tags. We are called upon to aid in a cause that is certainly worth fighting for.”
Students participated in a long night of dance themes that included:
- Cougar Pride
- Glow Zumba
- Around the World
- Under the Sea
- Superheroes
- Welcome to the Jungle
“Our dance marathon is always a great way for students to have fun, raise money and help those children who need it the most,” said Sarah Laux, PhD, associate director in the Kimmel Student Involvement Center.
Photos:
SIUE’s 2019 Dance Marathon brought its fundraising totals up to more than $40,000.
Tilly McRoberts, ambassador for the Children’s Miracle Network, galvanized SIUE dance participants on Feb. 23.
A group of dance marathon leaders helps keep the crowd motivated.