WKU’s 10th annual Dance Big Red raises nearly $94,000 for Norton Children’s Hospital
BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Thanks to Western Kentucky University students and the community, patients at Norton Children’s Hospital will have even more access to quality care.
More than 700 students raised nearly $94,000 through Dance Big Red, an annual student-led dance marathon that benefits the hospital. The marathon happened over the weekend, and more than 200 special guests, including sponsors, families and community members took part in the Community/Dance Little Red Hour.
“We are ecstatic from the overwhelming response from students, donors and sponsors,” said Hannah Adams, Dance Big Red co-chair. “With the support of everyone pulling together, we raised $93,851.99 for Norton Children’s Hospital, directly impacting pediatric heart care and pediatric cancer care for patients from across the state. The result of this event is a dream come true.”
Dance Big Red has held multiple fundraising events over the past year and worked in partnership with Warren County Public Schools’ Dance Little Red and various Dance Mini Reds.
The student members planned various campus outreach opportunities to donate and get involved. They also met with Norton Children’s patients and their families to learn about their journeys.
“The continued success of the event is a testament to the strength of leadership and compassion found at WKU,” said Dana Matukas, Norton Children’s Hospital’s Western Kentucky communication project manager. “Since the inaugural event, Dance Big Red has raised over a half a million dollars for Norton Children’s Hospital through Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation. Another key component of the event is Norton Children’s Hospital family involvement each year. It was an amazing night of stories that inspire and give hope.”
WKU president Timothy C. Caboni said he’s proud of students for using their time and talents to save lives.
“Our hard work and dedication is making a direct impact to families in this region,” said Grant Oller, Dance Big Red co-chair. “The WKU community and spirit showed out on Friday to support Norton Children’s Hospital. Our executive board is ready to start planning Dance Big Red 2025.”
Norton Children’s Hospital says it received almost 6,000 patient visits from the Bowling Green community this past year. Norton Children’s says it is further investing locally to bring the specialized care closer to home.
Donations from the community and events such as Dance Big Red support the hospital’s mission of providing care to all kids.
