The UNC Dance Marathon Through the Years

Charlotte Lutz is a member of the Publicity committee. 

Carolina For The Kids turns 20-years-old this year!
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Inspired by other dance marathons, UNC student Michael Bucy created the dance marathon in 1997 to fill UNC's void for a large student-run fundraiser. His mission, “to unite the University, community and state in fostering emotional and financial support that improves the quality of life for the patients and families of N.C. Children’s Hospital,” has stayed true across the years.

Today, the UNC Dance Marathon has become a Carolina tradition. Along the way, it has crossed many landmarks.

1999: Year one of the event. A modest but positive start! Attracted 300 volunteers and dancers, and raised more than $40,000.

2008: The marathon celebrated their 10th anniversary with returning overall committee alumni. This year featured a surprise appearance by comedian Will Ferrell (Yes, him!)​

2010: The marathon gained over 1,600 dancers and raised a whopping $420,000.

2014: Raised $550,000, Carolina For The Kids crossed the half-million mark for the first time

2015: The organization officially changed their name to “Carolina For The Kids,” in order to better focus on and celebrate the cause

The legacy of Carolina For The Kids is more than just fundraising. It is about team spirit and giving back. 2012 UNC graduate Laura Kirchhofer recently said, "The Dance Marathon is one of the highlights of my UNC experience. The excitement, bonds, and goodwill that it creates makes a big difference on campus and for the kids."
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We hope that you will be part of history this year!