Students at the College of Charleston raised a record $75,038 in the fourth annual Dance Marathon, the College’s largest philanthropic event. The event was held at the Carolina First Arena on February 26 and 27, 2010 with more than 250 participants.

This year’s total sets a new record for the amount of money raised and combines with previous years for a total of $225,000. All procceds go to the Children’s Miracle Network at MUSC Children’s Hospital for programs and research at MUSC Children’s Hospital.

A memorable opening ceremony brought together patients, former patients and their families from the MUSC Children’s Hospital as well as College of Charleston President P. George Benson and his wife, Jane, who kicked off the event with the first dance.

The Executive Director of the 2010 Dance Marathon, Erin Michalewicz, sums up the night, saying “Dance Marathon is an incredible 15-hour overnight event where students celebrate the money they raised to benefit MUSC Children’s Hospital.  We have raised a combined total of more than $150,000 through the hard work and perseverance of the dedicated students at the College of Charleston.  This years’ event will feature an air guitarist, bands, energy drink flip cup, break dancers and more.  Dance Marathon truly allows students to have a night to go wild for the life of a child.”

Participants pledge to dance the night away in honor of kids who can’t while following a few simple rules: not sitting throughout the duration of the event, bringing their dancing shoes and a smile.

The money that is raised comes from the generosity of the College of Charleston’s students, professors, and their families and friends, along with the Charleston community.  People donate their money and time, realizing the immense satisfaction of knowing they are truly doing something great for kids that deserve to be helped.

While this is only Charleston’s fourth Dance Marathon, this philanthropic event has been around since 1973. This is a nationwide event that benefits over 170 Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

For more information, contact Megan Zalla at 502.836.3950.