Dance Marathon team members celebrate last year's accomplishments. This year the group plans to raise even more money for Children's Miracle Network. Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Shalley.
Dance Marathon at Florida High is a student-led, year-round movement dedicated to raising money and awareness for children receiving care at Shands Children’s Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. Through fundraisers, school events and the annual marathon, students work together to support families facing serious medical challenges.
Florida High’s annual Dance Marathon is scheduled for Feb. 14, when students and volunteers will gather on campus for the culminating fundraising event. Organizers say the marathon serves as the program’s largest effort to generate both donations and awareness.
“I do Dance Marathon to make an impact on something bigger than myself,” senior Ryleigh Gunter, Co-Hospitality Chair, said. As part of the leadership team, Gunter helps plan events and ensure participants feel welcomed and supported throughout the year.
Senior William Hutchison, the Dance Marathon Co-Morale Chair, plays a key role in keeping energy high and making sure the morale team stays organized and focused on Dance Marathon’s mission. Hutchison participates in Dance Marathon because he believes no child should have to go through something like this, and what Shands Miracle Hospital does is amazing.
“Our biggest challenge is finding a sponsor to make it easier to have events,” Executive Director in Training Lilly Traft said. Traft participates in Dance Marathon to “dance for the kids that can’t” and has had many friends who have been to Shands, including Elizabeth Shalley, who also serves as the Executive Director of Florida High’s Dance Marathon.
For many students involved, the experience leaves a lasting impact beyond fundraising.
“My favorite memory was the big marathon last year because we all came together for a good time while raising money and awareness for kids,” Hutchison said.