Iowa State Dance Marathon Raises $145 Million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals
This past weekend, the Iowa State Dance Marathon took center stage at Memorial Union Great Hall, hosting its annual Big Event. Months of meticulous planning by dedicated committees and volunteers culminated in an awe-inspiring spectacle aimed at raising crucial funds for the Children’s Miracle Network hospitals. The grand total raised this year amounted to an impressive $145,162.28, a testament to the unwavering commitment of all involved.
The Big Event was a vibrant tapestry of activities and emotions, with attendees immersing themselves in a plethora of engaging experiences. From the infectious beats of a silent disco to the mind-bending antics of a hypnotist show, there was never a dull moment. A particularly poignant highlight was the hourly morale dance, uniting participants in a shared sense of purpose and joy. Families bravely took to the stage, sharing their intimate stories, tugging at heartstrings and fostering a deep sense of connection within the crowd.
Addy Wenzl, a sophomore studying genetics and a member of the creative committee, humorously quipped, “Bring your tissues and hope you’re not wearing mascara because I cry every time.” Such raw, unfiltered emotions underscored the profound impact of the event on both participants and observers alike.
The event also featured a children’s talent show, showcasing the boundless creativity and spirit of the young performers. Additionally, the Angel Kiddo room and ceremony provided a poignant moment of remembrance, honoring the Dance Marathon children who have tragically passed away. These touching tributes served as a poignant reminder of the resilience and courage displayed by these young individuals.
The participants were divided into four Miracle Maker teams, each tasked with fundraising for the Children’s Miracle Network. Throughout the year, team members engaged in various activities and met with families directly impacted by the Dance Marathon. These encounters offered a powerful glimpse into the lives of those affected by the hospitals’ lifesaving work, fostering a profound sense of empathy and connection among all involved.
Kassidy Brown, a sophomore studying apparel merchandising and design, shared her profound reflections on the impact of the event, stating, “Whenever they talk, whether it’s just a family in a meeting or the Big Event, they are always so appreciative of our time and willingness to be there. Some of them have admitted that if they were college students, they wouldn’t give up twelve hours of their Saturday for this cause, until it happens to you, you don’t fully understand or have empathy for it.” Brown’s words encapsulated the transformative power of firsthand experiences in cultivating compassion and understanding.
For Wenzl, the true essence of the event lay in creating a magical experience for the children, offering them a brief respite from the challenges they face daily. “They go through things that no one should have to go through,” Wenzl remarked. “They have hardships but today is a day they can kind of forget about it all and just feel loved and celebrated and have a good day. It’s like Christmas for them, really.” These sentiments underscored the profound impact of the Dance Marathon in bringing moments of joy and celebration to those who need it most.
Reflecting on the collective spirit of giving and support that permeated the event, Brown remarked, “Seeing the families here and reflecting on everything they’ve been through is very impactful. Seeing college kids getting together and dancing for the kids and wanting to make a difference is very special to the families that go because it proves that people have hearts and people care about kids they don’t even know.” Brown’s words encapsulated the deeply human connection forged through acts of kindness and generosity.
As the event approached, committee members dedicated countless hours to meticulous planning and coordination, ensuring that every aspect of the event ran seamlessly. Allison Eekhoff, a sophomore studying event management and a member of the events committee, shed light on the behind-the-scenes efforts, stating, “We prepare and we plan by booking vendors and planning the timeline. Then, on the day of the event, we make sure everything runs smoothly, put out all the fires, and then just enjoy all of the fun stuff that comes after and during the event.” Eekhoff’s dedication highlighted the crucial role played by volunteers in bringing the event to life.
Eekhoff also emphasized the profound joy of witnessing the children’s pure enjoyment throughout the event, stating, “My favorite part is seeing all the kids and how much they enjoy it. It’s so cute and so wholesome—they just have such a fun time.” These heartwarming moments captured the essence of the Dance Marathon, where the simple act of bringing joy to children’s lives held immeasurable value.
For Brown, the Dance Marathon represented a unique opportunity to give back to her community and make a tangible difference in the lives of others. “For me, the Dance Marathon means everyone coming together and making a difference for families and so kids can be kids,” Brown reflected, encapsulating the collective spirit of compassion and solidarity that defined the event.
In conclusion, the Iowa State Dance Marathon stands as a shining example of the transformative power of community, compassion, and collective action. Through their unwavering dedication and boundless generosity, participants and volunteers alike have touched the lives of countless children and families, offering hope, joy, and support where it is needed most. As the echoes of laughter and music fade, the enduring impact of this event will continue to resonate, inspiring others to join in the noble cause of making the world a brighter, more compassionate place for all.
