College and university students have been known to pull some wacky stunts. And a 46-hour, no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon can certainly be added to the list. But this stunt is for a very good cause.
College and university students have been known to pull some wacky stunts. And a 46-hour, no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon can certainly be added to the list. But this stunt is for a good cause: To raise money to help children fight childhood cancer.
For the second consecutive year, WPVI 6abc, the ABC O&O in Philadelphia, will showcase the world’s largest student-run philanthropy: THON.
WPVI will air a live half-hour THON telecast fon Saturday, Feb. 18, at 7 p.m. ET.
Penn State students will once again stay on their feet for 46 hours, raising money to fight childhood cancer.
Penn State’s THON is now in its 51st year. All money raised benefits Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital in Hershey, Pa.
THON’s first dance marathon in 1973 raised just over $2,000. Since then, THON has raised more than $203 million.
THON kicks off Friday, Feb. 17, at 6 p.m. and wraps up 46 hours later on Sunday at 4 p.m. “Dancing For a Cure – Live From THON” will be hosted by WPVI’s Bob Brooks, Walter Perez and Brittany Boyer.
The exclusive underwriter for the broadcast will be Penn State Health Children’s Hospital.
“I feel so fortunate to be working with 6abc this year to showcase the magic of THON Weekend 2023,” says Lily Pevoto, executive director of THON. “The impact that this organization has on so many children, families, students, alumni, and supporters is immeasurable, and I can’t wait to be able to give a glimpse of it all through this year’s program.”
The program will also be syndicated to other television markets, including New York. With its syndication partners, roughly 16% of American homes will have access to the program.
Stations simulcasting the program are: WABC New York, WTAE Pittsburgh, WHTM Harrisburg and WATM State College.
“THON is truly an inspirational event,” says Bernie Prazenica, WPVI GM. “The students of Penn State are to be commended on their ability to conduct and operate an organization that raises $200 million to fight cancer. Through 6abc and our simulcast partners in New York, Pittsburgh and across Pennsylvania, we look forward to supporting the PSU students in having another record-breaking year.”
THON is programmed and produced entirely by Penn State students. They configure the Bryce Jordan Center. They build the stage. They also manage the concessions and handle all the custodial duties. And, of course, the estimated 700 student dancers stay on their feet for 46 hours straight.
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