Participants in Ball State’s Dance Marathon are now required to raise at least $100 to attend the event.
The BSU Dance Marathon executive board made the decision during the first week of school, after reaching out to eight other universities for advice. President Max Browning said the organization is aiming to more effectively connect dancers to the cause.
“Every dancer should leave the Dance Marathon event knowing that they have made a major impact for Riley Hospital for Children and that they are truly saving lives,” Browning said.
The $25 registration fee is included in the minimum, leaving $75 for each dancer to raise. The executive board is hoping the minimum will help raise more money for the cause, but it isn’t the main reason for the decision. Browning said he wants participants to feel more involved in the event, and know they are making a difference.
“We recognize that by raising more funds for Riley Hospital, we are able to make more miracles and save more lives,” Browning said. “We also recognize that by each individual dancer raising more funds, they will also feel more connected during the event.”
Brittany Kiefer, a sophomore business major, participated in Dance Marathon last semester. She said it's important for dancers to see the impact they've made, and isn’t concerned about lower participation.
"I think the dancer minimum requirement won't affect the number of participants, but I really think it'll help the connection between participants and Riley families,” Kiefer said. “With that being said, that's something that truly matters as a participant ... seeing the joy in all of your hard work.”
Browning said the new rule won't affect the number of participants in Dance Marathon. He said the organization is willing to help anyone who is struggling to raise money.
“Our hope is that all dancers who do decide to attend our event will be completely dedicated to the mission of Dance Marathon and truly help make our Riley families feel like the celebrities they are,” Browning said.
Those who are worried about raising the dancer minimum can contact Alyssa Thompson, director of Dancer Fundraising, at BSUDMFundraising@gmail.com.
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