Dakotathon Aiming to Reach Fundraising Goals Through Push Weeks

Dakotathon strives to make a significant impact in support of children and their families in the Sanford Children’s hospital year-round. 

With push week in full force members are particularly committed to reaching a collective goal. President of Dakotathon Ella Wittmuss shares this semester’s goal for push week is “to raise $30,000 in one week.” 

Push week occurs once each semester and is dedicated to promoting excitement and encouragement within the Vermillion community by providing Dakotathon members with additional resources to assist them in fundraising. 

“The purpose of push week is to help us reach our end of the year fundraising goal, along with getting students on campus involved in the organization. Director of Recruitment Taryn Rexwinkle said.

Several events were hosted in honor of push week. Some of these include a dirty soda bar, dodgeball tournament and partnerships with local businesses including Leo’s and Mr. Smiths.

 All proceeds raised by Dakotathon go directly to supporting children and their families who are treated at the Sanford Children’s Castle in Sioux Falls, SD. 

Push week is a critical time for Dakotathon members to come together and focus on their purpose as a philanthropic organization. 

“We try to hand out fundraising resources to all of our members to make it as easy as possible for them,” President of Dakotathon Ella Wittmuss said. “We also try to promote working together as a team for one cause.” 

Dakotathon’s objective is to raise awareness about childhood illnesses and to provide as much support as possible to those suffering from childhood illness. 

“The Vermillion community should know what Dakotathon is and how it makes a difference in so many individuals’ lives,” Rexwinkle said. “It could benefit a loved one in their lifetime. In a situation like that, they would be grateful for all the meal vouchers, medical supplies, etc. that Dakotathon was able to raise money for.” 

Dakotathon has a profound impact on the children and families suffering from childhood illness, along with the members involved in the organization. 

“I have been involved in this organization since freshman year of college. A fundraising organization can be intimidating. Once I met the miracle kids and heard their stories, I could see how grateful they were for what we do. It opened my eyes to the root of this organization.”

The Vermillion community can support Dakotathon throughout push week by raising awareness, participating in events hosted by the organization and donating if possible.