‘By The Kids For The Kids’ fundraiser for the Akron Children’s Hospital

By Sofia Syed, Arts & Life Editor

In the holiday spirit of sharing and caring, Dance Marathon UAkron is holding a fundraiser called “By The Kids, For The Kids Silent Art Auction and Benefit Concert,” for Akron Children’s Hospital.

“By The Kids, For The Kids” is on Saturday, Dec. 5 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Student Union Piano Lounge.

At this fundraising event, attendees can enjoy live music from Rhythm and Roos, Raw Sugar, and more. There will be free snacks and beverages, and a kids craft table provided.

Attendees can also view artwork made by children at Akron Children’s Hospital.

Co-director of Marketing and Sponsorship for DMUAkron Willa Neale said, “In addition to the artwork made for the event, we will be auctioning off donations from The Akron Zoo, Akron Rubber Ducks, Massage Envy, University Tans, Grape and Granary Winery, Akron Civic Theatre, The University of Akron Alumni Office and more.”

The big ticket item of the silent auction will include a signed LeBron James jersey. Various gift baskets and Pura Vida bracelets will be for sale as well.

Tickets can be purchased at the door at $10 for adults and $5 for children.

DMUAkron is a student organization that provides emotional and financial support to families that are being treated at Akron Children’s Hospital. Executive Director Hannah Marcum said this is the first time DMUAkron has held a silent auction and benefit concert.

“I believe that children express themselves through play, and art is one form of that,” Marcum said. “Allowing children to paint, and then participate in the auctioning of their work builds their self-esteem and feeling of worth as individuals. By having these pieces of art, music, basket auctions, and people that respect our cause in attendance, the event truly will represent the spirit of acting for the kids, which is what Dance Marathon at The University of Akron is all about.”

DMUAkron also holds a 12-hour dance marathon in April.