Student Philanthropy at UT
Giving back to the community
Helping a cause greater than yourself can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life. At The University of Toledo, students are discovering just that. As more students become inspired to perform these acts of kindness, record-setting amounts of goodwill come back to the community.
“We have more than 200 student organizations at UT and philanthropy is a huge component of these groups,” says Lori Edgeworth, Director of Student Involvement at UT. “Part of the college experience is enjoying newfound freedom and friendships. But it’s also about being inspired, having a purpose, developing leadership skills and serving others.”
UT provides a wide range of unique ways for students to improve the human condition in Toledo. “Our students get involved in everything from food banks and mentoring programs to school supply drives and fundraisers,” says Edgeworth. “When they get involved, they feel connected with the University and the community. Those connections will help students succeed at graduating and beyond.”
One of UT’s oldest traditions is Songfest.
“It started in 1937 when fraternities showcased songs explaining the history of the organization,” says Edgeworth. Now it’s a music competition, and listeners donate money to that year’s chosen charity. Songfest 2009 will be on Saturday, April 4.
One of UT’s largest traditions is Dance Marathon.
UT’s Dance Marathon is a 16-hour annual event that has raised more than $150,000 for the local Children’s Miracle Network since 2002. Last year alone, a group of 450 students collected $68,000, making it the most successful UT Dance Marathon thus far.
“It’s overwhelming to see the inspiration, emotion and teamwork of an event like this,” says Lucas Blazejewski, student director of Dance Marathon. As one of the largest student-run philanthropic organizations at UT, Dance Marathon takes more than nine months for 35 students to plan. But, Blazejewski says, the work is well worth the reward. “Children and families from Children’s Miracle Network come and share their stories so we have the gratification of seeing where the money goes first-hand.”
Dance Marathon takes place each spring semester at the Student Recreation Center. In addition to dancing, there are games, meals and entertainment for the dancers. “We have a ton of fun, but come hour 12 or 13, everyone is just struggling to stay on their feet,” says Blazejewski. “Many of the children we help are in hospital beds and undergoing treatment for much of their childhood. This is our tribute to their struggle.”
UT students are passing on the tradition to Toledo’s youth.
In addition to helping those in need around the Toledo area, some Dance Marathoners are sharing their moves – literally, by showing area high schools how to host their own event. “We’re currently working with Central Catholic High School on planning their own 6-hour version of Dance Marathon. We’re planting the seeds for younger generations to become passionate about giving back to the community,” Blazejewski says.
How do students get involved?
At the beginning of each fall and spring semester, the Office of Student Involvement hosts a Student Activities Fair. This gives students the perfect opportunity to find out more about different organizations, interact with members and see what student groups have to offer.
“One of the biggest rewards is seeing the look on someone’s face when you’ve done something to improve his or her life,” explains Edgeworth. “That’s why so many UT students are involved in our philanthropic events.”
