On Saturday, March 28, UGA Miracle announced it raised $1,402,031.26 for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at its 31st annual Dance Marathon. More than 2,000 students, faculty, staff and community members gathered in Stegeman Coliseum to celebrate one of the University of Georgia’s largest student-run organizations and its continued commitment to children’s health.
The event marked a 13.5-hour marathon of dancing, fundraising and celebration, bringing together the Athens community in support of a shared mission. Participants engaged in activities throughout the day, including silent discos, live music, morale group games and time spent with Miracle Families.
“Dance Marathon brings together over 1,000 members of the Athens community in support of one mission: changing kids’ health,” said Halle Bryan, Dance Marathon events chair. “The people in this organization are some of the most genuine and intentional I have met, and their passion is truly reflected throughout this event. Getting to know our Miracle Families makes the impact even more meaningful and reminds us why we do what we do.”
The marathon began at 10:30 a.m. Saturday with the total fundraising reveal taking place at midnight. The morning kicked off with an opening ceremony, dance performances and remarks from UGA President Jere W. Morehead. Throughout the day, attendees participated in four themed hours titled “Gameday,” “Surf & Turf,” “It’s a Marathon Not a Sprint” and “Magic Hour.” The night culminated with a final fundraising effort called “Circle of Hope,” where participants removed hospital bands worn during the event to honor children who spend time in the hospital.
UGA Miracle’s mission centers on supporting patients and families at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, often referred to as “Miracle Families.” These families play a central role in the organization, attending events and sharing their stories with students to highlight the real-life impact of fundraising efforts.
“UGA Miracle has been such a gift to me and so many others, bringing people together and creating an incredible sense of community on campus,” said Helen Arline, program director. “Dance Marathon is 13.5 unforgettable hours of music, dancing, family stories and celebration — a powerful way to close out the year, unite our campus in support of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and celebrate the impact we’ve made and the lives we continue to touch.”
Students fundraised throughout the year through initiatives such as campus-wide challenges and organizational partnerships. During Greek Week and Presidents’ Day this year, Miracle raised more than $200,000.
For many participants, the experience goes beyond fundraising.
“UGA Miracle’s Dance Marathon is the event of the year for me and so many others,” shared Virginia Miller, UGA Miracle finance director. “Being in a room full of people for 13 hours who share the same passion of helping others is so inspiring. It shows that college-aged people can come together and make a big difference.” As the final total was revealed, the crowd celebrated the culmination of a year of dedication, highlighting the lasting impact UGA Miracle continues to make for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the families it serves.