Members of the National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) at Field Stevenson Elementary are turning compassion into action by organizing a Dance Marathon to benefit Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.
Student leaders Wyatt Ksander, Kat Duffy, and Henry Stevens, along with 5th grade teacher sponsors Mrs. LeGrand and Mrs. Ulczak, have taken the lead in planning the event. What began as a goal to raise $500 has already doubled, with students surpassing $1,000, and they’re still hoping to raise even more.
The Dance Marathon is part of the Miracle Network Dance Marathon movement, a year-round, student-led initiative that raises funds and awareness for Lurie Children’s. Since 2010, these programs have raised more than $7.5 million to support critical treatments, medical equipment, research, and family services for young patients.
To make the event both meaningful and engaging, NEHS members are working directly with Dance Marathon representatives to design an experience tailored for Field Stevenson students. The event will feature three 30-minute sessions held in the school gym, giving students the opportunity to participate in music, dancing, and interactive activities.
In addition to the fun, the event will include educational components to help students understand the purpose behind the marathon and the children it supports. Organizers hope this combination of entertainment and awareness will inspire empathy and generosity throughout the school community.
“This event exemplifies our chapter’s purpose of providing meaningful service to our community,” shared Mrs. LeGrand and Mrs. Ulczak.
The teacher sponsors have been especially proud of the leadership demonstrated by the NEHS members throughout the planning process.
“Our members have shown leadership by brainstorming ideas for our event and helping to generate excitement in the building for the event!” they said.
Students involved in the planning process say they are motivated by the opportunity to support children and families facing medical challenges.
“I hope that the kids this will benefit feel happy knowing other kids support them,” said Henry Stevens. “I hope they know other kids care about what they are going through.”
Kat Duffy shared her appreciation for the opportunity to help organize the fundraiser, saying, “I feel grateful for being able to plan and put on this event.”
For the sponsors, the experience has been equally meaningful. “As sponsors, this event has been rewarding because we have seen our members engaging with a charitable organization,” Mrs. LeGrand and Mrs. Ulczak said. “It has also been wonderful to see the community rallying around this cause.”
Through their leadership, compassion, and dedication, these students are not only raising funds for an important cause but also inspiring others to make a difference, demonstrating that even the youngest members of a community can have a powerful impact.