More than 40 teams and 700 participants helped the University of Vermont’s annual student-led fundraising event RALLYTHON raise a record-breaking $122,330.29 for the University of Vermont Children’s Hospital.
RALLYTHON is a student-led yearlong fundraiser, which culminates in a 12-hour dance marathon, signifying the average length of a nurse’s shift at Vermont’s local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.
During RALLYTHON, which took place on Saturday, March 2nd, students heard stories from patient families treated at the UVM Children’s Hospital and engaged with champions (current and past patients of the hospital) while fundraising, participating in games, and dancing.
After the conclusion of the dance marathon, RALLYTHON continued to raise funds, allowing them to present a check of $120,210.10 to Dr. Lewis First, Chief of Pediatrics at the UVM Children’s Hospital and Chair of the Department of Pediatrics at the Larner College of Medicine. Donations have continued to roll in; today, the fundraising total sits at $122,330.29 and counting.
RALLYTHON is organized by UVM’s Department of Student Life in collaboration with the UVM Medical Center. Through its five years in existence, participant students have raised more than $378,000, 100% of which supports pediatric patients at the on-campus medical center. According to staff, these funds go toward the purchase of everything from life-saving equipment and medicine to supplies meant to enhance the experience for patients and their families during their treatment.
The University of Vermont Department of Student Life provides students with extracurricular experiential learning, involvement, and leadership opportunities. With a variety of program areas spanning Outdoor Programs, Student Media, Leadership & Civic Engagement, Fraternity & Sorority Life, and Campus Programs, Student Life aims to connect students with communities and experiences that will supplement their academic career.
Source: UVM News