RebelTHON

RebelTHON
Name	RebelTHON
Location	University of Mississippi

RebelTHON is a student-run philanthropy organization at the University of Mississippi, inspired by the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon and Children's Miracle Network. The organization is dedicated to supporting Batson Children's Hospital, which is part of the University of Mississippi Medical Center and is affiliated with the Children's Miracle Network. RebelTHON works closely with other organizations, such as the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and the United Way of Oxford, to raise funds and awareness for the hospital. The event is also supported by local businesses, including McAlister's Deli and Ole Miss Bookstore.

Introduction

RebelTHON is a dance marathon that brings together students, faculty, and staff from the University of Mississippi to raise money for Batson Children's Hospital. The event is inspired by other successful dance marathons, such as the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon and the Indiana University Dance Marathon, which have raised millions of dollars for children's hospitals like Riley Hospital for Children and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. RebelTHON is a member of the Children's Miracle Network and works closely with other organizations, including the American Red Cross and the Make-A-Wish Foundation, to support the hospital and its patients. The event has also received support from local Ole Miss Athletics teams, including the Ole Miss Rebels football and Ole Miss Rebels basketball teams.

History

The first RebelTHON event was held in 2006 and has since become an annual tradition at the University of Mississippi. The event was founded by a group of students who were inspired by the Penn State IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon and wanted to bring a similar event to their campus. Over the years, RebelTHON has grown in size and scope, with more students and organizations getting involved each year. The event has also received support from local businesses, including The Oxford Eagle and Ole Miss Student Union, and has partnered with other organizations, such as the University of Mississippi Medical Center and the Mississippi State Department of Health. RebelTHON has also been recognized by the University of Mississippi administration, including the Chancellor of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Alumni Association.

Organization

RebelTHON is a student-run organization that is led by a team of University of Mississippi students. The organization is divided into several committees, including Morale, Entertainment, and Fundraising, which work together to plan and execute the event. The organization also has a Board of Directors that oversees the event and ensures that it is run smoothly and efficiently. RebelTHON works closely with other organizations, including the University of Mississippi Student Union and the Ole Miss Greek Life, to recruit volunteers and raise funds for the event. The organization has also partnered with local businesses, including McDonald's and Walmart, to secure sponsorships and donations.

Events

The RebelTHON event typically takes place over a period of 12-24 hours and features a variety of activities, including dance performances, live music, and games. The event also includes a silent auction and a raffle, with prizes donated by local businesses, including The Square and Ole Miss Bookstore. In addition to these activities, RebelTHON also features a miracle child ceremony, where families of patients at Batson Children's Hospital share their stories and experiences. The event has also included appearances by local celebrities, including John Lee and Kermit Davis, and has been supported by local media outlets, including WLBT and WJTV.

Impact

RebelTHON has had a significant impact on the University of Mississippi community and beyond. The event has raised over $1 million for Batson Children's Hospital since its inception and has helped to support the hospital's pediatric care programs. RebelTHON has also helped to raise awareness about the importance of children's health and the need for philanthropy in the community. The event has been recognized by the University of Mississippi administration, including the Chancellor of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Alumni Association, and has received support from local businesses, including BancorpSouth and Renasant Bank. RebelTHON has also partnered with other organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the March of Dimes, to support their missions and raise awareness about important health issues.

Participation

RebelTHON is open to all University of Mississippi students, faculty, and staff, as well as members of the local community. The event is a great way for people to get involved and make a difference in the lives of children's hospital patients and their families. Participants can register for the event as individuals or as part of a team, and can also volunteer to help with the planning and execution of the event. RebelTHON has also partnered with other organizations, including the University of Mississippi Greek Life and the Ole Miss Student Union, to recruit volunteers and raise funds for the event. The event has also been supported by local businesses, including Ole Miss Bookstore and The Square, and has received recognition from the University of Mississippi administration, including the Chancellor of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Alumni Association.

Category:University of Mississippi