Students participate in RebelTHON.
Through years, I’ve done my share of event planning. From fundraisers for the arts and nonprofits to themed parties for a variety of causes, making the list and checking it twice is second nature. After all, no one wants to get caught with the wrong sized tablecloths or without the right amount of food and beverage for a crowd. Serving on committees has allowed me to collaborate with incredibly talented people from throughout the community.
That’s one reason I’m so impressed with the planning and organization that was put forth by the group of students who put together this year’s RebelTHON event. Covering everything from catering and dancer relations to sponsorships and external affairs, these students were simply amazing.
What is RebelTHON? It’s 12 hours of on-your-feet dancin’, movin’-n-groovin’ fun. The event took place February 22, and lasted from noon until midnight. More than 400 students registered for the event, and children and families from Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital also attended the dance marathon.
In just its second year, RebelTHON raised $31,454.29, up from just over $25,000 last year.
Why raise funds for Le Bonheur? Each year, more than 20,000 children from North Mississippi are treated at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. No child is ever turned away for treatment, regardless of the family’s ability to pay.
Event co-director Wil Yerger said it best: “There is no greater feeling that helping others, and RebelTHON is a fantastic way to give to the community. Children are never turned away from Le Bonheur, and the money we raised goes directly to providing services to families who need assistance. It’s a great feeling to know that we, in our own way, are contributing to the futures of these kids and their families.”
About sgmorris