Team Members
Welcome to the coolest organization ever.
At USC Dance Marathon, we say "it's cool to care" and "bad dancing saves lives". As you go to events and get to know fellow team members, I hope these tips and resources will help you feel successful at fundraising and making a difference! Even if you’re the only person in your section who signed up, you’re already making an impact.
Getting Involved
Whether you're brand new or returning, starting with your “why” is a great first step at connecting with the cause and learning more!
What brought you here? Maybe you were a Miracle Kid or a patient at the children’s hospital years ago. Or maybe you just saw a campus of students rallying together for something bigger and thought, “I want to be part of that.” Any connection is a good reason to participate. Be curious!
Here are a few ways to deepen your connection to the cause:
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Attend internal staff or exec meetings to see behind the scenes.
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Join hospital tours to understand where funds go and who they impact.
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Volunteer for Miracle Family events or hospital programming if offered.
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Go to events like Spookathon, push days, or All-Hero meetings — they’re great places to meet people and get inspired.
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Talk with exec members at events! They're the most excited of the bunch and are a group of people who want to help you feel connected.
Check out this short video to see footage I recorded from hospital tours, push days, and more from USCDM in 2023.
Solo Fundraising
Fundraising as a team can feel easier, but another cool part of Dance Marathon is how many creative ways you can get donations on your own! Pick something that fits your vibe, and let people support you as much as the cause. Here are some ideas to get you started:
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Offer rides, coffee runs, or errands for donations.
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Host a bake sale or take requests.
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Sell art, crafts, or thrifted finds via social media.
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Use your talents: play an instrument on the quad, do a silly challenge, etc.
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Facebook Fundraisers (not applicable for some programs)
Spoken Asks
When it comes to getting donations, the best option is a direct, personal ask. Whether it’s a phone call, a voice memo, or a video, people give because you put in the effort. They are the most effective for getting donations from family, friends, etc.
Here's a starting script for how you can explain the connection between your team and your Thon program. If you don't know how to fill in a blank, ask your team captain!
“Hey! I'm part of [Band name]'s fundraising team for [Dance Marathon program name]. We help support kids and families at [Hospital/foundation] by funding [specific initiatives]. Our team goal is to raise $[XXX] by [date] and every dollar makes a difference. Would you be willing to support us?”
This short message can also work well for fundraising push days. Just change the fundraising total and the date, and say:
"My band team is raising $[XXX] for [Dance Marathon Program Name] in just [24/48 hours]! Every dollar supports kids at [Hospital Name] — can you help me hit my goal by [Time/Date]?”
Don’t be afraid to follow up. People are busy — a gentle reminder can go a long way. And be specific: Set a dollar goal for the day or ask someone to sponsor a milestone (like $10 per mile walked, or $5 per push-up).