This past weekend on February 25th and 26th, the Brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon KY Beta participated in raiseRED Dance Marathon, an 18-hour fundraising event for pediatric cancer and blood diseases. RaiseRED is The University of Louisville’s largest student-run philanthropic organization, and its efforts benefit the Norton Children’s Cancer Institute and the UofL Department of Pediatric Oncology and Hematology. The organization has now raised over 4 million dollars for research and patient needs since its inception. In addition to financial support, raiseRED volunteers with our Cardinal Crew program, inviting patients and families to partner up with a college student for fun events, parties, and mentorship. Brothers of Sigma Phi Epsilon are very involved with this organization with many brothers not just participating, but actively serving in executive and staff leadership roles.
Brothers Derek Donnelly, Bradley Waller, and I all served on the executive board of the organization, and have been helping to plan the marathon and other raiseRED pre-events since last summer. Brothers Landon Harris, John Smetana, and Tate Bucalo served as Morale Staff – and led their respective color teams in several activities throughout the marathon. Brothers Will Sanders and Brayden Jessie served as Student Involvement Staff and helped dancers get connected to the marathon. President Manu Nair also was served as Student Involvement Staff – and won an award for SigEp KY Beta’s representation at the marathon!
The Dance Marathon itself began on February 25th at 6 pm and continued until the following day, which concluded in a community celebration where the total raised for the organization was revealed. The Dance Marathon focuses on getting dancers connected to the cause, with hearing from Doctors, families, and kids themselves about their care, as this night is all about the kids! There were also theme hours – such as Athletics Hour, Silent Disco, and Decades! Brothers participated heavily throughout the marathon in all activities – whether it was line dance, laser tag, or basketball! Overall combined with Brothers who danced and Brothers on leadership, KY Beta raised over $40,000 for the kids!