As Penn State students arrive home for the summer, many are excited to share what they have done during the school year. For most students, this includes football games, classes, and THON™. THON is a student-run organization that brings together students, alumni, and supporters in the fight against childhood cancer.
Here are some ways to describe the largest student-run philanthropy to family and friends back home.
What is THON?
THON is a yearlong fundraising and awareness campaign organized by students to enhance the lives of children and families affected by childhood cancer. THON’s yearlong efforts culminate in a 46-hour no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon every February. This is called THON Weekend.
Since 1977, THON has donated more than $272 million to our sole beneficiary, Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital.
Do people actually stand for 46 hours?
Yes! Each year, hundreds of students are chosen to dance in THON Weekend. Dancers can be selected by being an Independent Dancer Couple and entering a weighted lottery or by being selected through an organization. During THON Weekend, dancers, volunteers, families, and friends take a 46-hour stand against childhood cancer, where they participate in various games, see performers, and raise funds.
Where does the dancing come in?
Throughout the year, Dancer Relations captains come together to brainstorm a line dance that includes a mash-up of popular songs, trends, and references from the past year. The line dance also includes information about the philanthropy.
The line dance is performed every hour throughout the weekend and includes a variety of dance moves and stretches. At the end of the weekend, line dances from previous years are performed as volunteers reminisce about the previous years.
Where is THON Weekend held?
THON Weekend has been held in different facilities throughout its history at Penn State. For the past 20 years, it has been held in the Bryce Jordan Center on campus. Prior to that, it was held in the White Building and the Rec Hall.
When telling family and friends about THON and THON Weekend, feel free to answer these commonly asked questions, but make sure to talk about your own firsthand experiences as well. The THON community is one that is incredible, and we are excited to spread this community into the world.
THON™ is able to donate 96 cents of every dollar raised to Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital because of supporters like you. Your generosity creates moments of joy for Four Diamonds children and families and empowers our volunteers through year-round events, fundraisers and THON Weekend.
