Lindenwood University Students and Guests Will Dance for a Good Cause Saturday

is trying something new on Saturday to raise funds for a good cause—a dance marathon.

The LU Dance Marathon student organization has a mission that includes raising support and funds for the kids and families who are part of the Children’s Miracle Network of Greater St. Louis.

Kristen Clayton, president of the LU Dance Marathon organization, said that more than 150 universities across the country are involved in dance marathons, and the people who started the committee at Lindenwood see it as a good way for the students to do more for the community.

“This year we do not expect a large turnout, as it is our first year and we had quite a few roadblocks getting the word out in such a short time,” Clayton said. “We are optimistic though, especially since we declared the event is now free to get in if you bring your own snacks.”

Clayton said that marathon participants who registered before Oct. 31 were able to reserve food and a T-shirt for the event for $20. She said the organization’s goal this year is to get as many participants as possible.

“Any money raised is an amazing goal reached, and next year can be geared toward individuals and teams going out and fundraising against each other,” she said.

All proceeds collected during the dance marathon will be given to the Children’s Miracle Network of Greater St. Louis. Clayton said the proceeds will be split between the organization’s partner hospitals, St. Louis Children’s Hospital and SSM Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center, and earmarked for the continuous support of families and programs.

She said the event is open to the public and that she encourages all community members to participate in such a worthy cause.

Each hour will have a theme, Clayton said, and all participants are encouraged to participate. Themes are listed on the organization’s Facebook page.

“You can even dress up for each one if you like,” she added.

Clayton said that you don’t need to know how to dance to participate in the event and that even if you’re not interested in dancing, there will be other games and activities going on.

“The children who are patients of these hospitals do not get a break from their ordeal, so we stay on our feet for 12 hours in honor of their everyday struggles,” Clayton said. “Just come out and have some fun. It’s all for the kids.”

This alcohol-free event will be held Saturday at Lindenwood University in the Evans Commons. It will run from noon to midnight.