Dance Marathon: Students' largest fund-raising event

Dance Marathon, a 25-hour event that brings together the entire FIU community, raises money to assist the children at Miami Children's Hospital (MCH). Monies raised go to the MCH Foundation to support various programs at the hospital such as the Division of Preventive Medicine.

The massive undertaking--one of many across the country that together comprise the nation's largest student-run, philanthropic event--features more than 250 students who stay on their feet and dance away the afternoon, night, morning, and another afternoon, all for charity.

Dance Marathon is about more than just dancing. Participants have enjoyed laser tag, karaoke, basketball and rock climbing. Comedians, the Salsa Kings and the Miami Heat Junior Jam have also provided entertainment. One of the most anticipated moments of the event is when the "Miracle Children," inspirational survivors from Miami Children's Hospital, visit Dance Marathon each year.

The blisters and tired feet are worth it: The grand total raised at Dance Marathon 2003, including money as well as in-kind donations, was $100,138.31. Just as impressive (if not more)--100 percent of the contributions go to Miami Children's Hospital Foundation to help children in the South Florida community.

Plans are well underway for the 2005 FIU Dance Marathon, to be held April 3-4 in the PharMed Arena (formerly the Golden Panther Arena). To help support the cause, please call a Dance Marathon representative at (305) 348-2149 or send an email to MD@fiu.edu.