What does it mean to work towards a cause? How is it possible for a single person to contribute to something so much larger than themselves? This year, as a freshman at the University of Central Florida, I decided to take the initiative in finding the answer to these enigmatic questions by joining the SPARK Committee for its inaugural year. SPARK is a leadership development committee attached to Knight-Thon, UCF's link in the collective chain of college dance marathons aimed at raising money for Children's Miracle Network.

While I honestly didn't know too much about the organization going in, my experience working with Knight-Thon so far has proven to be incredibly enlightening. Not only have I learned a great deal about CMN's mission to provide quality medical care for children with a variety of illnesses and ailments, regardless of a family's ability to pay, but I got to witness it first-hand during a tour of Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children right here in Downtown Orlando.

The tour gave me an opportunity to see where the money goes that we fundraise throughout the year. As a non-profit, all of the equipment (incubators, heart monitors, etc.), emergency response vehicles, and means of entertainment for the kids comes from the money we raise.

Aside from being a part of this ever-growing movement, the experience has also been one of self-discovery. As connected to the cause as I feel, I am still just about as horrible at fundraisers as I was back in grade school, despite the fact that this money is actually going towards saving a child's life, rather than receiving a crappy portable radio--yes, I'm old.

The benefit to being a member of SPARK is that we all feed off of each other when it comes to ideas. Some people don't give college students enough credit when it comes to creativity. From bucketing for money in outlandish costumes to posting Donor Drive links on popular dating websites, I've gathered a collection of ideas that I would like to attempt at some point.

SPARK also prepares us for leadership roles such as a position on Knight-Thon's expansive exec board and as a team captain. My time with the committee has inspired me to want to start a Knight-Thon team for UCF's Taekwondo Club next year.

My journey with Knight-Thon has evolved from one of curiosity to a path to make a difference, in both the community and within myself. I have become a walking advocate for CMN and encourage others to share in the experience. This is just the beginning. I intend to work with Knight-Thon for the remainder of my time here at UCF. Maybe even longer. If you would like to be a component in making a difference, check out my Donor Drive link.