The event was founded and directed by Katie Kendall, who led a committee of volunteers including Marion Carilli, Taylor Dreyer, Greg Goines, James Hance, Mason Harmon, AC Kendall, Henry Long, Jack Long, Sarah Stevens, and Elizabeth Sturkie. Congratulations and appreciation are due to everyone who participated, supported, and contributed to this event.
The Ben Lippen Dance Marathon is under the umbrella of the USC Dance Marathon organization and the Children’s Miracle Network. Through this “mini” Dance Marathon event, Ben Lippen joined with other schools in the area in raising support for the Child Life Programs at Palmetto Children’s Hospital. All of the proceeds will go directly to support programs that provide non-medical care to patients and families who receive treatment at PCH. The programs include music therapy, pet visits, and other social interventions to children who are sick, away from home and in unfamiliar settings. Because patients are not billed for these services, events like Dance Marathon are essential.
Starting this event is part of the vision of Mr. Russell to allow Ben Lippen students to serve the local community in meaningful ways. Because the event is entirely student-led, it will provide opportunity for students to develop leadership and organizational skills. After this fantastic start, future events will make a significant impact on our community.
EVENT PHOTOS were donated by Claudia Sapienza with CAM North Photography.
Lower School: http://camnorthphotography.pass.us/bldm-one/
Upper School: http://camnorthphotography.pass.us/ben-lippen-mini-dance-marathon/
The event also received great publicity in our community. Here are a few examples:
- Midlands Anchor – Ben Lippen students raise $7,468 for children’s hospital with first Dance Marathon
- ColaDaily – Ben Lippen dance marathon raises thousands for children’s hospital
- Ashley Dusenbury’s Tweet – https://twitter.com/AshleyDusenbury/status/825509385057210369
- Columbia SC Buzz’s Tweet – https://twitter.com/columbiascbuzz/statuses/825670825390985216