UDance Dance Marathon
- PRSSA UD
- Apr 19
- 2 min read
Written By Kylie Marley
What is UDance?
This Sunday April 12th, the University of Delaware will host their 20th UDance event at the Bob Carpenter Center. The event will run from 9:00am to 9:00pm and will consist of several events throughout the day. But what exactly is Udance? UDance is a student-run philanthropic organization at the University of Delaware. Founded in 2007, UDance has been dedicated to fighting childhood cancer ever since. Students at the university raise awareness in their community through social media and on and off campus events, while providing immediate and direct financial aid to families affected by childhood cancer. Over the course of 20 years, Udance has helped over 20,000 families. Last year, Udance raised $1,810,025 to support families in need!
How Did UDance Happen?
Following the death of 14-year-old Andrew McDonough from leukemia in 2007, the university partnered with the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation to fight for a cure. Sororities, fraternities, and other clubs are given speeches about Udance when they join, often from family members of a child with cancer, or from the child themselves. Driven by students wanting to make a difference, the organization has grown from a small group to a campus-wide effort. UDance fosters relationships with "B+ Heroes", children battling cancer and raises money to assist with the high costs of treatment. All donations make a difference, and help take the financial burden off of families, allowing them to focus on the only thing that matters, making sure their child gets better. Every school day, 46 children are diagnosed with cancer. Childhood cancer is the #1 disease killer of children and teenagers, and the ultimate mission of UDance is to give kids a chance to grow up. As their motto goes “We dance today to give children a tomorrow”.
How To Get Involved
If you attend the University of Delaware, I’m sure you’ve seen the signs about UDance just about anywhere. There are many ways to get involved and make a difference. You can make your own personal fundraising page or create fundraising templates. Blue envelopes can be created to send to family members, friends, and anybody else to spread awareness and funds. Corporate sponsors can get involved as well as asking for donations from local stores. Many students go canning on Main Street to fundraise. Most clubs and Greek organizations will make personal fundraising pages to send to loved ones, where they can donate directly to that page. There are so many great ways to get involved and make a difference!
It’s Not Too Late!
Even though Udance is this upcoming Sunday, their committee begins donations almost immediately after. This year-long marathon allows UDance to get as many donations as possible and get their message out. Below are some links to get more information!
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