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March 5, 2025
The sounds of squeaking basketball shoes and the roar of sports fans typically fill the space of the Welsh-Ryan Arena, but this weekend, a different kind of energy will fill the cavernous arena. Northwestern University Dance Marathon (NUDM) is returning for its 51st year, transforming the arena into a hub of music, movement and philanthropy.
Over 15 hours, from Friday night until Saturday morning, students will get down to raise awareness and funds for Chicago HOPES for Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing educational support to Chicagoland children experiencing homelessness. Through literacy development programs, STEM enrichment, dedicated mentorship, and basic needs services, Chicago HOPES helps students achieve long-term educational success.
“Working with Chicago HOPES for Kids for the past year has been an amazing experience,” said Irene Martinez, NUDM 2025’s managing and engagement director. “Participating in volunteering events has been a great opportunity, and we can’t wait for another chance to engage with the mission at our BUILD event during the dance marathon.”
NUDM’s partnership with Chicago HOPES for Kids has given Northwestern students a chance to engage firsthand with the nonprofit’s mission. Fundraising efforts have been underway since last fall and the final total will be revealed after the last dance on Saturday morning. Martinez said the money raised by Dance Marathon will help Chicago HOPES for Kids reach more than 250 additional children and families each year — a significant expansion from its current reach.
“Our students experiencing homelessness face instability in education, housing, and relationships,” said Kimberly King, Chicago HOPES’s Volunteer Coordinator. “We see NUDM students investing their time, talent, and service into this often-invisible community, fostering enriching friendships and serving as role models for our students.”
King added that the additional funds will help the organization expand STEM programming, provide students with additional field trip opportunities, and host more family fun nights. Chicago HOPES is also planning to hire more site coordinators for its nine partner shelters and community-based sites while expanding programming to new locations.
For many participants like Northwestern senior Sammie Hesekiel, NUDM is more than just a fundraising event — it’s a deeply personal and memorable tradition.
“I have loved the opportunity to dedicate my four years to raising money for such incredible causes and creating an event that everyone at the school can enjoy,” said Hesekiel, who also serves as NUDM 2025’s Managing and Student Director. “I am so grateful that I have this opportunity to dance one last time in NUDM 51 and for the Northwestern community to continue this tradition for years to come.”
Northwestern University Dance Marathon is one of the largest independent student-run philanthropies in the country, raising more than $23 million in its 50 plus year history. For the 28th consecutive year, Evanston Community Foundation will also get a portion of the final fundraising total. Donations can be made online at go.nudm.org.
