It is officially the week of UDance, the University of Delaware's largest student run philanthropic event. UDance is a year-long effort to raise money and awareness for the fight against childhood cancer that culminates into a 12-hour dance marathon from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday, March 22. As if beating cancer isn't enough of a reason to go, I took the time out to compile a list of the best six reasons why you should all be at UDance this year.
1. UDance raises money for the fight against childhood cancer.
Every school day, 46 children are told they have cancer. Think about your favorite little six year-old cousin. One day, he's kicking a soccer ball outside his front lawn with all of his friends giggling and screaming like little boys do. The next day, he is in the hospital receiving toxic chemotherapy to try and keep him alive. That's why we raise money for childhood cancer -- so that your favorite little cousin can, one day, go back outside and play soccer with his friends and have a smile on his face. This is why the supports of UDance do what they do, and why you should join the fight.
2. The B+ Heroes.
All financial proceeds from UDance supports the B+ Foundation. The foundation has a set of heroes -- boys and girls who have, or have had, pediatric cancer -- that directly benefit from the money that is raised. Many organizations on campus, ranging from Greek life to D1 athletic teams, have their own hero that they cherish and love. At UDance, the B+ Heroes come on stage for a Talent Show and Hero Hour during which the entire crowd cheers them on. Nothing is more gratifying than seeing these little children on stage smiling and laughing!
3. It's a dance marathon.
Seriously, who doesn't love dancing, jumping around with friends, and throwing their hands in the air like they just don't care? With music blaring through speakers all day long, it's always a great time moving to the groove and fighting childhood cancer surrounded by the people you love at school. Even if you don't like dancing, there are other ways to get involved, like volunteering to run kiosks or greet all the dancers at the door!
4. The entertainment.
As if having a non-stop dance party wasn't enough of a reason to come to UDance, the entertainment on stage is always supreme. There are cover bands from all over the state, Delaware's very own a cappella groups, and the greatest dance companies on campus who take the stage all day long. This year, there are going to be more performers than ever before, so stay tuned to find out who will be playing!
5. Silent Disco.
Undoubtedly, one of the most cherished part of the day by participants, Silent Disco takes the cake for the most fun. Everyone has their own set of headphones, and you have no idea what song anyone else is listening to at the same time. Nothing is more hilarious than watching your best friend breaking it down to Jay Z while you are fist pumping to some techno song!
6. Moment of Reveal.
Reveal Hour is by far the craziest, upbeat, jam-packed, hour of the day. It takes place at exactly 9 p.m. when UDance has hit the 12 hour mark, and it is when the UDance executive board reveals how much money has been raised. Not only is it the craziest part of the day, but Reveal is by far the most gratifying and awe-inspiring moment anyone can experience. When the amount of money that has been raised is revealed on that stage, you can't help but look at it and think to yourself, "Wow, I am the reason that number is up there, and I can be part of the cure against pediatric cancer." Reveal is the most heartwarming and satisfying part of UDance.
