Local News

NewsRadio 1020 KDKA Editorial: Penn State Dance Marathon

February 20, 2015 / 9:20 PM EST / CBS Pittsburgh

They're dancing for charity in State College this weekend –

All weekend.

Dance marathons aren't new.

Back in the 1920s and 30s, they could last months –

Until only one exhausted couple was left standing.

In 1973 - Penn State students created a less-grueling version –

A 46-hour dance marathon –

To raise money for charity.

These days – they just call it "Thon" –

And since 1977 –

It has raised money for pediatric cancer research and treatment –

At Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital.

Actually – "Thon" marks the culmination of a year-long fundraising effort.

Last year, student volunteers raised more than $13 million –

Since 1977 – that number tops 114-million.

Thon is also special because it's a completely student-run charity.

So – if you get a chance this weekend –

Check out the webcast from Penn State's Bryce Jordan Center –

And watch hundreds of footsore students –

Dance for a good cause.