HuskyTHON continues to raise funds and awareness for Connecticut Children’s Medical Center

HARTFORD, CT (WFSB) - A year-long philanthropic effort at the University of Connecticut to raise money and awareness for the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center is well underway.

HuskyTHON culminates in an 18-hour dance marathon. Organizers called it one of the top 10 dance marathons in the country.

This year, the marathon was on March 4th and organizers said they raised over $1.4 million to donate.

Over 3,800 participants register to be part of the event.

UConn sophomore Grace Annonson rings the fundraising bell with pride.

She just raised 150 dollars for HuskyTHON- in an hour!

“All this money is helping kids. It’s the least you can do”, said Annonson.

Each student has a goal of raising 131 dollars today for the 131 thousand patients at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center last year.

If they reach their goal they get to ring that bell and add a candle for these miracle children.

“Just to know I am doing something so the families know they’re not fighting in the hospital alone means so much to me”, said Allyson Lyons, a UConn student and Co-Director of JonaTHON’s.

Families aren’t fighting alone, these students at fundraising headquarters are working hard emailing, texting, and even Venmo requesting people looking for donations.

They are also handing out prizes to top fundraisers.

“Hopefully we’ll hit our totals soon”, said Lyons.

Over the past 23 years, it raised more than $10 million. Just last year, it raked in $1,340,670.68. This year they were able to top it raising $1,480,255.77.

It is entirely student-run. Students said they dance for those who can’t.

“Despite their diagnoses it doesn’t matter for that day they say it’s the best day of their year and just to see the smiles on their faces. That’s why we do what we do”, said UConn Senior Tess Penders.

“Be part of the community, not just UConn but the outside community in general”, said Annonson.

For more about HuskyTHON, including ways to donate, head to the event’s website here.

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