On April 18, for the first time at The University of Akron, students will be able to dance and stand for those who can’t while raising money for Akron Children’s Hospital at the university’s first-ever Dance Marathon.
Alex Frawley, executive director of The University of Akron’s Dance Marathon, hopes that this event will not only raise money for the hospital, but bring a sense of community to Akron’s campus.
The executive team of Akron’s Dance Marathon
“I think that UA students struggle to see beyond the campus and school aspect; some students don’t even know that Akron Children’s Hospital is just down the street from campus,” she said. “I feel as though Dance Marathon really builds that bridge between the students and the lives that they are actually impacting.”
During the event, students spend the whole time standing, participating in activities and dancing for the kids. There will be planned hours including “Rave Hour” and “Disney Hour.” There will also be a variety of fun activities such as a visit from Zippy, UA’s mascot, face painting and a performance from Dance Unlimited, Akron Children’s therapeutic dance group for patients.
As much fun as the event can be for the students, its purpose is to raise funds for the hospital. During the event, Akron Children’s patients are featured and are encouraged to tell their story.
“Oftentimes, especially for our first year, it is so easy to get caught up in the logistics and fundraising only,” said Alex. “Actually connecting to the people who you are helping directly really brings everyone back down to earth and focused on WHY we’re doing this.”
Dance Marathon is a Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® (CMNH) program. Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for member hospitals, including Akron Children’s. All donations from The University of Akron’s Dance Marathon will fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care at Akron Children’s.
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