How High School Dance Marathons Drive IUDM's Impact

By: Conor Banks

Indiana University Dance Marathon is widely known as the second largest student-run philanthropy in the world, raising record-breaking totals for Riley Hospital for Children. During its 2025 Dance Marathon, the organization revealed its $3,135,391.23 total for the kids and families at Riley.  

But behind these large numbers is a growing network of high school students, known as High School Dance Marathon. These students make a difference long before they step on IU’s campus, while contributing to IUDM’s fundraising. 

At the center of these efforts is the Marathon Relations Committee, led by Director Corben Lashley. The group works closely with Riley Children’s Foundation and 20 partner high schools to help plan marathons and the logistics of these events.  

Throughout the year, the Marathon Relations team supports high school dance marathons by offering guidance on planning, fundraising and engagement. Whether it's meeting over Zoom to brainstorm ideas with these partnering schools, or attending events in person, Marathon Relations works to give students the tools they need to succeed. Helping plan events such as pickleball and volleyball tournaments, as well as providing incentives is key to the committees' role in building excitement about IUDM within different communities.  

By fostering enthusiasm around IUDM, High School Dance Marathon provides students with meaningful leadership opportunities and skills that are transferrable beyond high school.  

“So really not only is it the money they're [high school dance marathons] fundraising but also, they're kind of the future of the dance marathon programs at these different colleges,” Corben said.  

With the help of Marathon Relations, high school dance marathons contribute significantly to IUDM’s mission, being responsible for raising up to one third of the organization’s total. Last year, high school programs raised around $800,000 for Riley. Carmel High School is often the top fundraising school, raising over $320,000 this year.  

Bloomington South High School most recently held its annual dance marathon on April 4, when the program fundraised $80,563.26. This total surpassed last year’s mark of $72,820.56 –– a testament to the growing platform and impact of high school dance marathons.  

“Getting to see them raise a number that's bigger than last year and they really get to see the work that they're putting in year-round is worth it,” Corben said about the Bloomington South Dance Marathon. “And I mean, it's just so special.” 

While fundraising totals continue to rise among high school dance marathons, it's the personal connections and experiences that leave the lasting impression on those involved.  

“It's incredible because it's even better just getting to talk to these programs in the months leading up to their event and seeing how excited the students are,” Corben said. “And then when you get to go to those marathons you really get to see how much of an impact –– it's not only making an impact on the kids at Riley –– but also the kids who are involved.”