USI to host fifth annual Dance Marathon for Riley Hospital

Students at the University of Southern Indiana will host the fifth Dance Marathon to support Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. The 2014 USI Dance Marathon (USIDM) will be held from 2 to 10 p.m. Saturday, November 8, in the USI Recreation, Fitness and Wellness Center, with a goal of raising $15,000. Last year's event raised just over $10,000.

Dance Marathon is a multi-hour, philanthropic event that raises awareness and funds for Riley Hospital, which treats children across the state for serious illnesses or health conditions. In addition to participants, multiple families and children from Evansville and the region, with personal Riley Hospital experiences, will participate in the event, sharing stories of inspiration and strength.

"USIDM is my favorite organization to be a part of at USI," said Kelli Holtshouser, a senior and the marketing chair for this year's event. "This is a bittersweet year because there are many seniors, including myself, on the executive committee, and we've grown close working together these past few years. I've met a number of awesome people who have a Riley story, and that makes it even more personal for me to be involved."

Dancing, games and entertainment will be the highlights of USI's Dance Marathon, which will have a Mario Party theme this year. Participants will participate in games and events on the hour and learn parts for a line dance to be performed later in the evening. A magician from Louisville, Kentucky, will make a special appearance as well.

Dance marathons are hosted at the collegiate and high school levels across the state and to date have raised more than $20 million for Riley Hospital. Students are encouraged to register for USIDM online and create an online fundraising page. Students, faculty, alumni, parents and the community are encouraged to get involved. Participants stay on their feet for the entire eight hours with the theme "standing for those who can't." A free meal is provided for all participants.

"I'm excited to see the continuous growth of Dance Marathon and to make sure my last one is a good one," said Ryan Smith, a senior and president for the 2014 Dance Marathon. This is his fifth year being involved with the program. "USIDM has been a prominent part of my college career. I credit it with my growth as a leader, and it serves as a yearly reminder to always appreciate the good things in my life." 

There is a $10 registration fee online, and $15 at the door, however participants are encouraged to raise additional funds for the event on their own. "No amount is too small," said Smith. 

More information is available online at: www.donate.rileykids.org/usidm2014. You also can follow the event on Twitter and Instagram @USIDM with the hashtags #USIDM14 or #FTK (For the Kids).