Can you tell us a bit about how this club got started?
The club got started back in 2010. It was actually started working alongside Mount Mercy University and Coe College. After a few years of working together the decision was made to have each school have their own Dance Marathon program. DM works alongside Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) to raise money for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. Though there are 400 Dance Marathon programs across the United States, Kirkwood Dance Marathon is the only community college with a DM.
What is the purpose of the club?
The purpose of Dance Marathon is to raise money for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. The money we raise goes toward families who are being treated at the Children’s Hospital to help with the financial aspect. This money can help families with diapers/supplies, transportation, food, and much more.
When and where do you meet?
Our Leadership team meets every Wednesday from 4 – 5 p.m. in 3042 in Iowa Hall.
What do meetings consist of?
We do team bonding activities, meet in large groups and in small groups as well. Throughout the year we work together to plan the various aspects leading up to the Big Event. We organize anything from recruiting students and alumni to participate at the Big Event, to getting sponsors to donate to our final total, to marketing all DM activities, and involving our DM families throughout the year. Occasionally we have our miracle families and kiddos come share their stories during meetings to inspire members and show how the money we raise helps the families.
What are some benefits of joining?
You get to learn a lot of new skills that you don’t get to learn by just going to classes everyday. You meet a ton of new people within the college, but also externally and know that you are being a part of something bigger than yourself. As a member, you make connections throughout campus, with the families, and other Dance Marathon’s across the country. You are a part of something that can truly make a difference in someone else’s life.
How can students join?
Email dance.marathon@student.kirkwood.edu or reach out to anybody that you know is involved or a part of Dance Marathon for more information.
Who is part of the leadership?
We have two advisors, six core leaders, 14 leadership committee members, five morale captains, and we hope to have as much of the campus community participate in our Big Event on Friday, March 1. Any Kirkwood student can sign up to participate in the Big Event and help fundraise along the way.
Is there anything you would like to add?
You never know what an opportunity like this can create in the future, but you’ll never know unless you try. Mark your calendar for Friday, March 1, 2024.
Information provided by Kirkwood students Lexi Bright and Grace Nichols; Rylee May and Emily Grace, club advisors.
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Categories: Club Corner, Feature
