Written By: Shawyon Poursaba, Devin McOwen, Isabella Mackey, and Brooke Jordan
Throughout the year, THON™ offers different opportunities for organizations, committees, and Independent Dancer Couples (IDCs) to raise as much money as possible FTK®. Dream Forward is a 17-day long fundraising campaign full of numerous fundraisers, incentives, and events to encourage the THON community to fundraise and spread awareness. It is a great way to get involved with THON and support any organization, IDC, or committee.
The Dream Forward Campaign began at the kickoff of the THON 5K, which took place on October 26th and will last until 100 Days ‘til THON, where the total Dream Forward campaign fundraising number is revealed.
When asked about events they are most excited for, Rules and Regulations (R&R) captain Matthew Wegener revealed he was looking forward to the 100 Days Celebration. He said it is a way of acknowledging all of the people who participated.
Some advice Matthew would give to organizations, committees, and IDCs for fundraising during Dream Forward is to use your Donor Drive and personalize it, as it gives you a better chance of reaching your fundraising goals.
Adam Tanabe, a Special Events Captain, says, “Get the message out there, post on social media, send personal messages, and remind people why you are fundraising”. It is important for people to understand THON’s mission.
Beyond participating in THON sanctioned fundraisers, organizations can make their own alternative fundraisers (alt funds). Adam’s favorite alt fundraiser is “Pie in the Face”, a simple yet fun way to fundraise where people can pay to plunge a plate of whipped cream in an org members face. Matthew loves the creativity of all the fundraisers, as it really makes each organization unique in their THON journey.
This year, 100 Days ‘Til THON Celebration and Dream Forward Total Reveal will take place on Wednesday, November 12th at the HUB starting at 11:00 am and will conclude with total reveal at 3:05pm. We can’t wait to see everyone get involved and fundraise FTK®!
To ensure that THON is able to donate 96 cents of every dollar raised to Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, we heavily rely on donor support. These donations provide us the resources to create endless memories for our Four Diamonds families & foster a deep love & connection to our mission for our volunteers through Pre-THON Events, alternative fundraisers, & THON Weekend.
