ugaMIRACLE, formerly known as UGA Dance Marathon, is the largest student-run philanthropy on campus. The organization unites the University community in an effort to save children's lives through financial contributions to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. ugaMIRACLE is active year-round doing everything "For the Kids, Always!"
Throughout the year, ugaMIRACLE hosts several special events to raise money, including a 5K, Tour of Homes on Milledge Avenue, and MiracleFest, a weekend of awareness and celebration. Every team member strives to raise $200 or more through letter writing campaigns, canning together in downtown Athens, selling coupon books and much more. Members have several opportunities to interact with the Miracle Children, making an impact in more ways than one. More than 800 students participate in ugaMIRACLE, with about 500 serving on one of the12 committees.
As their personal contribution to the kids after the money is raised, students pledge to stay awake for the 24-hour Dance Marathon held each February. The Marathon is a celebration of lives saved and money earned but also has symbolic meaning. Students give up just one day, but hundreds of children spends weeks or months in the hospital each year suffering from illness or injury. The Marathon is packed with concerts, contests, color wars, food, student performances and the annual morale line dance. Miracle Children who have beaten the odds at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta visit the Marathon, interact with team members and tell their powerful stories, encouraging students to stay awake through the night. At the conclusion of the 24 hours, the fundraising total is revealed and celebrated.
Since the organization's start on campus 14 years ago, $2.5 million has been raised for Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. In 2007-2008 alone, ugaMIRACLE raised $321,000 for the kids. Join and help us make this total even higher at the 2009 Marathon. Visit www.kidsmiracles.org/ugamiracle and register to be a team member today!
Contact Christina Graff, executive director, at ugamiracle@gmail.com for more information.
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