Dance Marathon is Iowa State University’s largest student-run philanthropic organization. This organization raises funds and awareness year-round for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital over in Iowa City. They also support approximately 32 local families who have been impacted by childhood illness and treated at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital. They host events year-round for these families so that kids can be kids. This year, Dance Marathon at ISU is raising funds for the Stead Family Children’s Hospital's brand new Wags and Waves Facility Dog Program which helps kiddos cope and heal during their hospital visits. Beyond the impact on local kiddos and their families, this organization works to foster a community of leaders on Iowa State’s campus through various leadership and development opportunities. Functioning similarly to a non-profit business, Dance Marathon can offer valuable experience that directly relates to many colleges and their majors. Each year, Dance Marathon celebrates all of their hard work at the Big Event. The Big Event takes place at the Iowa State Memorial Union during the second weekend in February and it is a day dedicated to the families they support. With engaging activities throughout the day, Dance Marathon reminds everyone the joys of just being a kid. At the end of the event, Dance Marathon does a tote board flip on stage that reveals the total amount of money they raised for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.