Instead of “shaking” for an internet meme, the UT community will be dancing this weekend to support the hematology and oncology unit of East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.
“Dance Marathon, to me, really stands out on its own as far as charitable causes on campus because of the local impact that it makes,” Zac Giffin, Dance Marathon president, said in a statement. “The Knoxville community welcomes and accommodates UT students … Dance Marathon gives us the opportunity to give back to the local hospital and the city of Knoxville. …”
While some students may be reluctant to spend an entire Friday night on their feet, Giffin said the experience is “indescribable.”
“Students pledge one night of their lives to dance for those who can’t at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital,” he said. “Although staying up for 14 straight hours presents its challenges, it is worth the exhaustion and the small foot pain we may experience when the children come visit us on the Saturday morning of the event.”
Event organizers have arranged a long list of entertainment for the evening. Zumba classes, belly dancing, ballroom dancing and a hip-hop dance class are all on the agenda. Attendees will be able to enjoy the musical styles of The Lonely Biscuits and a UT a cappella group. BOSS Dance Company and the UT step team will be performing along with a hypnotist.
Alyce Burdine, the vice president of events, believes it will be a memorable evening.
“Students should turn out because they will get the opportunity to be a part of the largest student run philanthropy and give back to the hospital that is in UT’s backyard,” she said. “Nobody remembers the nights they got plenty of sleep but you will remember the night you made a difference in a child’s life.”
Following the evening’s festivities, participants will play host to some of the children and their parents.
“My favorite part of Dance Marathon is when we have the kids’ carnival the morning after the event,” Hannah Alexander, an event organizer, said. “It’s so much fun to meet the kids and their parents and see our impact!”
The marathon will be held tonight through Saturday in the TRECs basketball gym, with registration starting at 9 p.m. today and ending at noon on Saturday.
For those who can’t commit to the entire marathon, Giffin offered some alternatives.
“If you can’t make it to our main event this weekend, you may know someone who will be giving up 14 hours of their life to benefit East Tennessee Children’s Hospital,” he said. “You can support the cause by donating to your friend and supporting them in this experience. Also, you may contribute by visiting our office in the Center for Leadership and Service in the UC. Or, even better, you may visit our event on Friday night and Saturday morning to show your support that way.”
Proceeds from the event will be donated to the hospital’s fund that assists families who can’t afford treatment.
“Any support for Dance Marathon and the hematology and oncology clinic is greatly appreciated,” Giffin said. “Help make the 19th year of Dance Marathon one to remember.”
