ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Dancing, movement and dedication are how a group of University of Michigan students raised more than $203,000 for C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital.
Members of Dance Marathon at the University of Michigan (DMUM) have spent the past academic year collecting money for pediatric therapies.
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The organization partnered with grocery giant Kroger -- who donated food, tote bags, gift cards, supplies, banners and $50,000 -- to put on fundraising events.
“Kroger is excited to team up with Dance Marathon at the University of Michigan in nurturing the future community leaders. We are truly amazed by the unwavering dedication and passion displayed by these young students, who are making a significant impact,” said Kroger Co. Corporate Affairs Manager Cam Barrett. “We are thankful for the opportunity to collaborate and make a difference in the lives of families and children at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, by fostering a strong sense of community engagement.”
Notable events supported by the retailer include DMUM’s Spook-a-thon in the fall, which gave Mott patients, families and community members a chance to participate in free Halloween activities.
Kroger also helped DMUM during the annual fundraising VictorThon. Members didn’t sit or sleep for 24 hours while they entertained crowds and danced to help fund therapies that may not be covered by pediatric patient insurance. Items donated by the grocery chain helped entice donor
A $5,000 donation on Giving Tuesday by Kroger was matched by the University of Michigan and went towards supporting a music therapist within C.S. Mott.
“DMUM is so grateful for everything Kroger has done to help us continue to do what we love in supporting the Little Victors at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. It has been an absolute honor collaborating with Kroger, and seeing their dedication and passion to create a lasting impact on the local community,” said DMUM Executive Director Alvin Dong.
DMUM hosts several fundraisers throughout the year. In total, it has raised more than $7 million in donations and sponsorships for children’s therapies since it was created 27 years ago.
Learn more about the organization’s mission here.