Trot for Tots: 5K run helps kids in need


Several events throughout the academic
year raise funds for kids treated
at Riley Hospital for Children.
Last week students ran, galloped, walked, or trotted across the finish line Riley Hospital for Children. They hosted the second annual Trot for Tots 5K run and walk to collect funds for Riley. The event, which takes place along the scenic nature trails on Saint Mary’s campus, is a prelude to Dance Marathon—an all-night event that concludes the fundraising for the hospital and announces the total amount of money Saint Mary’s raises throughout the academic year.

Riley Hospital for Children is a Children’s Miracle Network hospital located in Indianapolis. With programs aimed to help children, the hospital has aided families from around Indiana, including the Michiana area.

Though this is only the second year for Trot for Tots, Dance Marathon has continued to raise money for Riley Hospital for the past four years. Last year, the event raised a record $91, 538. Dance Marathon is lead by students, and since the program began at the College, they have raised approximately $245,000. Saint Mary’s is one of approximately 100 colleges and Universities that host a Dance Marathon event to benefit the hospital.

”Trot for Tots was a great success for us last year because we not only had great student participation, but we had a lot of members of the South Bend community participate as well,” says Kelly Deranek ‘10, president of Dance Marathon. Kelly was pleased with the 2009 turnout as well. “It’s an event we really look forward to because we love working with members of the community and raising awareness for this cause.”

—Alicia Smith ‘12