Honoring The 2024–2025 Top Dance Marathon Fundraisers
Inspiring students. Life-changing impact. For Children’s Health.
Each year, thousands of passionate students across the U.S. rally their campuses and communities in support of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Through year-round fundraising efforts, culminating in powerful celebrations full of dancing, joy, and hope — these students are redefining what it means to lead with purpose.
Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight the Top Dance Marathon Fundraisers for 2024–2025 — individuals whose dedication and drive helped raise critical funds for local children’s hospitals and inspired those around them to believe in the power of giving back.
Fundraising Tips from The Leading Campus Fundraisers
These students didn’t just raise funds — they raised awareness, hope, and spirits. Here’s how they did it:
- Mikey – University of Connecticut, HuskyTHON
“Never be afraid to talk to people! Most people just need to hear why you’re involved. They need to feel your passion — that’s what inspires donations.” - Grace – University of Georgia, UGA Miracle
“The answer is no until you ask. You’ll be surprised how many people want to support the work you’re doing.” - Filip – University of Connecticut, HuskyTHON
“I reached out to businesses and local organizations — they often have budgets for community outreach and are happy to support when they know it’s for the kids.” - Libby – Carmel High School Dance Marathon
“I sent my link to everyone, even if I was nervous. I remembered that it wasn’t for me — it was all for the kids.” - Jimmy – Indiana University, Indiana University Dance Marathon
“I keep past donors updated on my journey. It keeps them engaged and makes them feel like they’re part of the mission.” - Sophie – Indiana University, Indiana University Dance Marathon
“If you don’t ask, who will?”
Why They Dance
Every fundraiser has a “why” — a deep, personal reason that fuels their commitment. For some, it’s rooted in their own experiences. For others, it’s the stories of the families they meet along the way.
- Jimmy – Indiana University
A former Riley patient, Jimmy has been involved with Dance Marathon since he was eight years old. “Giving back to the hospital that gave me so much has always been my mission. When I applied to colleges, being part of IUDM was a top priority.” - Sophie – Indiana University
Sophie underwent bladder reconstruction surgery as a baby at Riley Hospital: “I danced for the kids who smile every day despite their challenges. And serving on the 2024 Executive Council gave me 23 more reasons to dance.” - Mikey – University of Connecticut
“I participate to bring light to kids’ darkest days. Every child deserves joy. If I can help give that to them, I’ve found my purpose.” - Grace – University of Georgia
“I was inspired by the families I met and a special student named Jax. I was his student teacher and connected him to UGA Miracle. Watching him thrive at Dance Marathon was the highlight of my year.”
Favorite Memories That Made It All Worth It
At the heart of Dance Marathon is the end-of-year celebration — a high-energy, joy-filled event with music, dancing, games, food, and of course, miracles.
- Sophie – Indiana University
“Day of Hope 2024 was unforgettable — we shattered records, raising over $680,000. It was a day of singing, dancing, tears of joy, and celebrating with best friends. I’ll cherish that day forever.” - Mikey – University of Connecticut
“Watching my Internal Relations team experience their first ‘Night Of’ as part of leadership — the light in their eyes said it all. It was magical.” - Jimmy – Indiana University
“Day of Hope was my favorite moment too. Being on Morale with friends who were just as passionate as I was made it unforgettable.” - Filip – University of Connecticut
“At the 2025 Night-Off, one of the kids randomly shouted ‘Dinosaur!’ and the whole room erupted in laughter. That pure joy is what this is all about.” - Libby – Carmel High School
“Introducing each group on stage at Dance Marathon — everyone was so hyped. It truly felt like a dream.”
A Legacy of Leadership
These fundraisers represent what Dance Marathon is all about: passion, persistence, and purpose. They’ve inspired their peers, united their campuses, and taken bold steps to change kids’ health — because This Generation Lifting Up the Next is how we change the future.
To the 2024–2025 top fundraisers: thank you for leading with your hearts, your hustle, and your unwavering belief in creating a world full of possibilities for all kids.
Interested in bringing Dance Marathon to your campus or getting more involved? Click the link to learn how to get started. https://dancemarathon.childrensmiraclenetworkhospitals.org
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