UGA Miracle’s 26.2-Hour Virtual Dance Marathon: Adapting Tradition in a New Era
This year marks a pivotal moment for the UGA Miracle, as the University of Georgia prepares for its 26th annual 26.2-hour Dance Marathon. Traditionally a vibrant, community-oriented event, the marathon is taking a significant turn by going fully virtual amidst ongoing concerns associated with COVID-19. The shift underscores how organizations can adapt while continuing to support vital causes.
Scheduled for February 20, starting at noon and concluding February 21 at 2:12 p.m., the UGA Miracle Dance Marathon is the largest student-led philanthropic initiative at the university. The event aims to rally participants, donors, and community members around fundraising for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Despite the changes, organizers promise the same spirit of fun, energy, and engagement that has come to define this annual event.
Notably, the virtual format allows participants to experience a range of activities, including color group wars and live music, as they would in previous years. “Although COVID-19 has forced UGA Miracle to operate in a heavily virtual setting this year, our fight for the kids has not wavered in the slightest,” stated Alison Pond, UGA Miracle’s Internal Director. This sentiment reflects the organization’s commitment to continue making a difference for children in need, no matter the circumstances.
While the in-person attendance has been limited to UGA Miracle’s leadership and committee members at the Tate Student Center Grand Hall, strict COVID-19 protocols will be enacted to ensure safety. These measures, approved by the UGA Miracle Preventative Measures Advisory Board, will be strictly enforced, starting 14 days prior to the marathon. Attendees opting for in-person participation must agree to the health guidelines set forth before receiving invitations.
Ryan Belfi, a sophomore and Alpha Omicron Pi’s UGA Miracle team leader, is among those who have chosen to attend in person, bringing her enthusiasm for the event along. “I think the main goal is getting everybody ready and letting them know how this type of format is going to go this year,” she shared. Belfi expresses her excitement for honoring the spirit of the event, even in its altered format, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining energy and connection among all participants.
A cornerstone of the Dance Marathon experience is hearing heartfelt stories from families who have benefited from the support of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Last year, Belfi described a powerful moment when families shared their journeys. “I bawled my eyes out last year,” she recalled, emphasizing that these personal stories allow new participants to tangibly see the impact of their efforts in the community.
To participate in the event, virtual attendees will enjoy all the usual fanfare—activities, stories, and music—safely from the comfort of their homes. A Zoom link for the event will be shared with registered participants on February 19, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to take part, regardless of their physical location. UGA Miracle’s commitment to innovation in fundraising remains a testament to the resilience and dedication of its members and supporters.
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