College chapter raising funds to send dancers to THON 2020

Penn College Benefiting THON, a student organization linked to the annual dance marathon at Penn State, is in the midst of raising funds – and awareness of pediatric cancer – with an aim to be represented at February's main event. THON raises money for pediatric cancer research and covers every expense for families that have children diagnosed with cancer and treated through Penn State's Hershey Medical Center. The organization goes beyond covering hospital bills: families can receive counseling and housing support, for instance, and the children get different visitors (such as music therapists) throughout their convalescence.



The club's Fall 2019 Leadership Team:

President – Cody M. Souders, of Lititz, electronics and computer engineering technology
Vice president – Rudy C. Shadle, of Mechanicsburg, construction management
Treasurer – Emily K. Conklin, of Port Allegany, dental hygiene: health policy and administration concentration
Secretary – Kaylee A. Smith, of East Stroudsburg, graphic design
Advertising chair – Alexa C. Henry, of Conshohocken, graphic design

"The goal for the year is to raise enough money to have a pair of dancers representing Penn College at Penn State THON 2020 (Feb. 21-23)," Shadle said. "That means two students would stand on the floor of the Bryce Jordan Center for 46 hours straight, showing their support and strength for families that are very thankful for everything they have done."

Among the planned events are "Lanterns on the Lawn," 50/50 sales at Wildcat athletic events, a basket raffle and its first-ever THON Night. Members have also hosted off-campus events such as a button sale at T.J. Maxx and two canvassing weekends when they go to houses and ask for donations.

Anyone wishing to donate can do so online, making a general contribution or choosing one or more of the chapter's student participants.