St Ambrose University Dance Marathon kicked off their year with a successful fall Push Day on October 2nd. With a fundraising goal of $25,000.00, the tension was high as the participants strove to reach their goal. “Hang Ten We’re Making Miracles Again” was the theme for the day, and SAUDM certainly rode the wave of excitement, and perseverance, as the day continued.
Texts were sent, stories were posted, Venmo’s were passed around. Anything and everything to reach the goal for the now 62 families SAUDM supports. Each year, Dance Marathon raises money for the Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital in Iowa City to support the children receiving treatment there. This year in particular, SAU Dance Marathon is raising money for flexible funding. All of the little expenses that add up for these families are being tackled by every cent raised here at SAU.
Dance Marathon is more than just raising money, however.
“The main impact is mostly the community, and the support that we provide.” explains Family Relations Director Katie Greer. “We create a welcoming environment that’s non-judgmental for these families who have been through so much.”
Dance Marathon members spent the night singing and dancing to create that welcoming environment that is cherished by the families supported.
Take it from Autumn Heinz, a member of one of the families SAU supports: “We are so proud to be a part of this family. Not every child is going to make it, but every time you do it or raise money, it gives them one more chance to keep fighting.”
At the end of the day, after dance breaks, sing-alongs, and endless fundraising; the final amount fundraised was revealed: $26,125.32 raised. Over $1,000 more than their goal.
As soon as the number was revealed, screams echoed and tears fell. A day of hard work completely worth it. The number revealed was a huge part of why the day mattered, but it wasn’t just about the number. It was about love, hope, and believing that every step, every dance, and every dollar can make a difference for these families.
