Westside High School’s Dance Marathon has been awarded second place for the most money raised in the 2022 Top First-Year Programs.

Miracle Network Dance Marathon is a student-led, year-round movement that involves raising critical funds for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. This prestigious award was given to Westside for their amazing commitment to donating funds, hosting events, and ultimately making each miracle kid feel special.

Westside ultimately raised $26,697 dollars as a result of various donations as well as events including ice cream socials, a dodgeball tournament and candy gram sales. This money will be funded for life-saving technology and tools such as healthcare treatments, innovative research, and financial aid to families who cannot afford certain medical services.

Senior Luke David is a member of the executive board for Westside Dance Marathon. David said that Westside’s community is heavily bonded and always willing to show up for each other. 

“I think Westside has a really strong community and everyone loves to support each other. A lot of other places that have Dance Marathon don’t have a community as strong as Westside’s so I think that is why we really stand out.”

Senior and executive board member Ella Tagge said there is nothing better than being someone who is there to support the miracle kids.

“I think the most impactful part of Westside Dance Marathon is being able to show the kids that there are people supporting them, and they aren’t going through this journey alone,” Tagge said.

Westside Dance Marathon continues to grow their movement by recruiting more students and hosting more fundraising events.