WHAT: The University of Alabama Dance Marathon (UADM), a student-led philanthropic organization that raises money for ill and injured children treated at Children’s of Alabama, will hold its third annual Dance Marathon tomorrow.
During the event, dancers and teams compete in games, dress up for the different themed hours and interact with former Children’s patients and “Miracle Families.” These families have children who have been treated at Children’s and at the Dance Marathon students will hear how the state’s only freestanding pediatric medical facility has helped each child.
In addition, UA students Erica Sucher and Corbyn White will be shaving their heads at approximately 7:20 p.m., to raise awareness of patients treated at Children’s.
WHEN: Saturday, March 1, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
WHERE: UA Recreation Center (401 5th Ave East Tuscaloosa, 35487).
WHO: UADM is a part of the national Children’s Miracle Network Dance Marathon organization, founded in 1991 by students at Indiana University in memory of a fellow student, Ryan White. Since the formation of the Dance Marathon, its presence has grown to cover more than 200 universities and colleges across the country. Entirely student run and donating 100 percent of the funds to local children’s hospitals, Dance Marathons have become a tradition on campus and in the community.
WHY: Leading up to the event, members of UA Dance Marathon committee have been working throughout the academic year to raise money for Children’s of Alabama through Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The UADM is a 10-hour no-sitting event where the final fundraising total for the year will be revealed. Students attending UA may participate as dancers, in teams or as volunteers. Teams are groups of dancers and range from campus organizations to a group of friends. Volunteers support the event through serving as deejays, artists, decorators, entertainment and much more.