THON
Our Story
In 2017, the Michigan Chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association (Metro-Detroit), began evaluating how to revamp their involvement with the community and provide members with the opportunity to give back in unique ways. One idea was to find a charitable cause that tied the chapter back to its roots and would be appealing to other alumni, so that they would become involved. The team sought out to find a cause that would fit this description, and very quickly realized that THON covers every aspect. With its strong roots at Penn State, recognizable name to alumni, and support for the fight against pediatric cancer, it was an easy decision for the team.
Our Signature Event
Each year, the chapters hosts their annual Fore the Kids Golf Outing where all proceeds benefit THON. The event began in 2018 and has grown every year since. Attendees at the event are able to enjoy a beautiful day of golf filled with prizes, contests, food, and networking while becoming more informed on the work that THON has done for pediatric cancer research. The chapter partners with local alumni and corporations to make this event a success. This past year, the community rallied together during tough times to have our biggest year yet hosting 128 golfers and raising over $16,000 for the kids. Planning has begun for the 2021 golf outing, with a goal of 128 golfers and raising over $18,000.
Our Goal
Beyond the yearly golf outing, the chapter wanted to be sure that there were other opportunities for members to give back through THON, whether it be a simple donation or another event. Through the THON Nation fundraising platform, the chapter is able to give alumni the opportunity to be more involved with the charity and partake in the fight against pediatric cancer. Be on the look out for other events hosted by the Chapter. One day, there will be a cure and we will all rejoice, for the kids!
Make a difference in the life of a child.
Join us in our commitment to turn childhood dreams into reality by supporting THON™. This year we are taking action by joining THON™ Nation and uniting with 16,500 student volunteers and over 25,000 alumni supporters in the fight against childhood cancer. THON's year-long efforts culminate in a 46-hour, no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon each February to celebrate our survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and take a stand--all in hopes of one day dancing in celebration of a cure.
Since 1977, THON has raised over $180 million for Four Diamonds at Penn State Children’s Hospital, providing comprehensive care for 4,000 families and funding critical research to take this fight beyond central Pennsylvania and spread hope around the world. THON's mission is to provide both financial and emotional support for our families, ensuring that they never have to face cancer alone