imageMore than 200 College of Charleston students danced the night away to benefit the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Children’s Hospital. After dancing for 17 hours and 70 minutes (the College was founded in 1770), student organizers announced that $42,605.06 was raised. Dance Marathon (DM) is the College’s largest student-run philanthropy and in six years has raised more than $450,000.

Each year participants pledge to raise $150 and celebrate their fundraising efforts in an all night Dance Marathon. Students arrive on Friday night and stay on their feet until Saturday morning to gain a greater understanding and appreciation for the struggles children in the hospital face every day.

Despite the name of the organization, DM is not about dancing. DM is all about raising funds and awareness for the kids at MUSC Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Throughout the night of the event, participants learn a fun and easy line dance, called the Morale Dance, as well as enjoying entertainment that has included bands, DJs, break dancers, improv groups, games, an air guitarist, and loads of food.