A record-setting 1,828 students had signed up to dance at the 11th annual UNC Dance Marathon as of Monday morning — 50 percent more than last year.
I knew it was completely possible" but I'm still thrilled" said Gabby Tucci, morale chairwoman for the marathon.
Last year, 1,196 students signed up and raised more than $320,000, making Dance Marathon the University's largest student-led fundraiser.
Dancer recruiters were out in full force last week, grabbing everyone they could to participate in the marathon, which gathers money for patients and families of the N.C. Children's Hospital in Chapel Hill.
The months of fundraising culminate on Feb. 20 and 21 at Fetzer Gym, where students must dance — or at least stand — for 24 hours.
Tucci said they used the same tactics to gather dancers as they have in past years, but to a greater degree.
They were present daily in the Pit and made their cause known on South Campus, at Kenan-Flagler Business School and at intramural games, coaxing students into participating for the kids.""
""They did a really good job of publicizing it this year and letting it be known how successful it is"" said first-year student Claire Bradley, who signed up to dance. Even before I came to school here I knew about it.""
Although they still are accepting dancers" organizers now are focusing on planning and helping the dancers raise money.
They suggest holding cookouts or spaghetti dinners begging grandparents or digging under couch cushions to gather money. Each dancer pledges to raise at least $100.
To keep the excitement alive Dance Marathon organizers are planning to hold a dancer appreciation day Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Pit" which will include card-making for children at the hospital.
""The dancers really want to be more connected to the cause"" Publicity Chairman Sam Lau said.
For those who left their dancing shoes at home, Dance Marathon organizers will begin recruiting moralers and volunteers Jan. 12.
Overall Coordinator Jenna Brooks said organizers are astounded by the number of students who have gotten involved, and anticipate many more will sign up to help.
It says a lot about the students we have here"" Brooks said.
SIGN UP TO DANCE
Go to uncmarathon.org for an application to e-mail to uncDMdancer@gmail.com.
Contact the University Editor at udesk@unc.edu.
