Western Kentucky’s Dance Marathon Raises Nearly $94,000 for Norton Children’s

Bowling Green, KY

Over 700 students from Western Kentucky University (WKU) swayed, spun, and danced to raise nearly $94,000 through Dance Big Red, the school’s 10th annual dance marathon. The collected funds are earmarked to benefit Norton Children’s Hospital, offering crucial support for lifesaving pediatric services.

Uniting for Children on the Dance Floor

The two-day marathon took place on March 9-10, 2024, at the university’s Raymond B. Preston Health & Activities Center. It witnessed the participation of more than 200 special guests, sponsors, and community members who attended the Community/Dance Little Red Hour to cheer for the dedicated student dancers.

“We are ecstatic from the overwhelming response from students, donors, and sponsors,” said Hannah Adams, Dance Big Red co-chair. “With the support of everyone pulling together, we raised $93,851.99 for Norton Children’s Hospital, directly impacting pediatric heart care and pediatric cancer care for patients from across the state.”

Year-long Fundraising Efforts Culminating in Dance Big Red

The event was a high point of several fundraising activities held throughout the past year. Students from WKU, in collaboration with Warren County Public Schools’ Dance Little Red and various Dance Mini Reds, successfully planned and hosted numerous initiatives. These outreach opportunities encouraged donations and active participation, even including interactions with patients and families from Norton Children’s Hospital.

A Decade of Dedicated Support

Dance Big Red has raised over $500,000 for Norton Children’s Hospital through the Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation since its inception. “The continued success of the event is a testament to the strength of leadership and compassion found at WKU,” said Dana Matukas, Western Kentucky’s communication project manager for Norton Children’s Hospital.

“Our hard work and dedication is making a direct impact on families in this region,” said Grant Oller, Dance Big Red co-chair. “The WKU community and spirit showed out on Friday to support Norton Children’s Hospital. Our executive board is ready to start planning Dance Big Red 2025.”

Nearly 6,000 patients from the Bowling Green area visited Norton Children’s Hospital in the past year. Events like Dance Big Red further the hospital’s mission of providing high-quality care to all children, regardless of their ability to pay, and are vital to maintaining and expanding its services.

More information about Dance Big Red

For additional information related to Dance Big Red, including a full list of sponsors, please visit the official website.