Kirkwood Iowa City Campus hosting second annual event to benefit UIHC
Each year nearly 80 American schools participate in Dance Marathon across the country, supporting the Children’s Miracle Network. Now the Kirkwood Community College Iowa City Campus is getting in on the fun… and the fund-raising.
“The community gives so much to the college in terms of support. To show our appreciation we like to give back in turn. Dance Marathon is a wonderful fund-raising event in which our students and their families can participate and have lots of fun doing so,” said Kirkwood faculty member Connie Marberry.
Kirkwood’s Dance Marathon works in conjunction with the Children’s Miracle Network, a non-profit organization that raises money for children’s hospitals, medical research and awareness of children’s health problems. Students nationwide raise approximately $125 million dollars each year through Dance Marathon to donate to various children’s health organizations. In support of the children, the students dance or stand the duration of the marathon.
“The mission of Dance Marathon is to provide financial and emotional support through special projects to families served by The Children’s Hospital of Iowa at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics (UIHC), with an emphasis on the pediatric oncology unit,” Marberry said.
Kirkwood’s Mini Dance Marathon is set for Jan. 23 from 6-9 p.m. in the Iowa City Campus, Lower Muscatine Road in the Commons/Deli area. Refreshments will be provided. Pledge proceeds will go to the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital.
This is only Kirkwood’s second year taking part in Dance Marathon, but those involved are hoping it brings in support from the community. “It’s lots of fun for students and their families and such a worthy cause. I think most families have been touched by cancer,” Marberry said.
Those who cannot attend the dance will be able to make donations to support the fund-raising efforts.
There is no admission charge for the Jan. 23 event and donations will be accepted at the door.