By Jane Jestus

On Saturday the 12th SMU students gathered to dance and raise money for kids in need at SMU’s first annual Dance Marathon on November 12th.

SMUDM is a student-run philanthropic organization that hosted a 12-hour dance marathon and the Dedman Recreational center. The event was part of a nationwide movement to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

The movement has raised more than $135 million for the kids across North America, ensuring that no child or family fights pediatric illness or injury alone.

At the end of the night Dance Marathon at SMU raised $32,221.52 to go directly to the kids and families at Children’s Health.

The party featured an abundance of activities as well as live entertainment. Attendees did the mannequin challenge, played dodge ball, participated in a rave hour, competed in a lip sync battle, and were entered into a raffle.

The SMU Dance Marathon members invited seven families to attend the celebration. The families shared their stories and inspired the dancers to keep dancing and donating.

Halfway through the night, reality star James Taylor left a video message to thank the group for their efforts and remind dancers why they participate.

SMUDM has officially made its mark in the community by raising more than $32,000 for the kids.