Content taken from www.THON.org:
Welcome to THON.org, the online home of the largest student-run philanthropy in the world! The Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, affectionately referred to as THON, is excited to have you join us in our fight to conquer childhood cancer.
In 1973, a small group of dedicated Penn State students held our first Dance Marathon. That year, 39 dancer couples participated and raised $2,000. Since then, THON's presence in the Penn State community has grown exponentially. THON now has over 15,000 student volunteers, 700 dancers, and has raised more than $78 million, benefiting The Four Diamonds Fund at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital.
THON is now a year-long effort that raises funds and awareness for the fight against pediatric cancer. With the support of students from all across the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and THON Alumni all around the world, we continue to make great strides towards finding a cure for all childhood cancers!
Thank you for your interest in learning more about THON. Together, we'll make a difference in the life of a child.
"When they say, 'We Are Penn State,' this is what they are talking about." - Joe Paterno
things to bring:
- All of your Ohana gear, especially your fish hat!
- A personal water bottle to refill throughout the weekend
- Your Penn State Student ID - you need this to get on the floor!
- Your cell phone & don't forget your charger! (Mobile chargers are awesome for THON weekend)
- A camera
- Money! (The BJC does accept lioncash and meal points)
- Personal hygiene materials (please!)
- Extra shoes & socks
- Tennis balls to massage your feet
- Water guns! (super soakers not permitted by the BJC)
- A bag to store your items that complies with BJC rules (fanny packs are awesome!)
ON THE FLOOR
- Encourage our dancers
- Play with the kids
- Do NOT mention the time!
- Make sure your hair is dry
things to do:
- EAT & DRINK REGULARLY!!
- Stretch and take laps
- Participate in all chants and dances
- Play games that the THON weekend committee has come up with
- Dance your heart out
- Interact with everyone you can!
- Just take it all in
tips to stay healthy before thon
- Cut down on your caffeine intake
- Maintain a regular, healthy sleep cycle
- Stay away from fast food
- Exercise regularly
- Up your vitamin C intake
- Get the flu shot
*YOU CAN NOT COME TO THON SICK*
THON LESSONS
We've put together some presentations to explain the different aspects of THON