The Stand

The Stand is New York City’s Dance Marathon, a year-long fundraising organization that benefits New York City’s Children’s Miracle Network hospitals. Dance Marathon is a national collegiate philanthropy that benefits Children’s Miracle Network hospitals all across the country. Three years ago, Chicago started the “city-wide” era of Dance Marathon. Unlike traditional DM’s, “city-wides” aren’t associated with a university or college, but are open to everyone within the area. New York City will be the nation’s fourth “city-wide” Dance Marathon. Throughout the year, several fundraising and awareness events are held in order to engage the community and increase participation within the organization. The year culminates with a large, celebratory Dance Marathon event in the spring, to commemorate the funds raised that year. People sign up in advance to participate in the DM, where they pledge to fundraise a minimum for the hospitals and remain on their feet for twelve hours to show support for the kids’ struggles. While standing, participants play games, are given several meals, perform a unified line dance and listen to patient families’ heart-warming stories. The Dance Marathon concludes with the reveal of the fundraising total for the entire year. By participating in the DM, New Yorkers are taking a stand against childhood illness and taking a stand for those who can’t.