The Future of BuckeyeThon
BuckeyeThon is the largest student-run philanthropy at The Ohio State University and the organization had to make multiple strategic choices, especially during COVID-19, to adjust and to continue the foundation of their work. The philanthropy’s main mission is to raise funds and awareness on a year-round basis for pediatric cancer at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Ishan Patel, former BuckeyeThon president, and Ben Smith, current president, spoke about the actions the organization has taken and plans to take.
The organization usually hosts a Dance Marathon in early February, so after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, they strategically chose to move the 2021 Dance Marathon to late November 2020.
“This was a long-term decision to transition the event to November for the unforeseeable future,” Ishan explained. “We have done research into similar organizations at universities across the nation, and we see that they have been successful in hosting the event in the fall.”
In years prior, BuckeyeThon noticed that the lag time between when students register in September to when the Dance Marathon is in February has made students raise more of their required $250 closer to February than in the fall. Since there were two Dance Marathons in 2020, altogether the philanthropy raised $2,228,067.16 in one year — a major success.
In the past, many students have enjoyed annual BuckeyeThon events throughout the year besides the Dance Marathon, but the organization had to shift this in order to adhere to local, state and national guidelines. Looking forward, Ishan and Ben were excited to mention there will be multiple events in the upcoming year for students to anticipate.
“There will be a Scavenger Hunt in late February that will include places across Columbus that are important to BuckeyeThon Kids and the organization as a whole,” Ben explained. “Since we wanted to involve all students, there will be one around Columbus and a virtual one.”
Additionally, there is another unannounced event later this semester for students to look forward to. Be sure to check out BuckeyeThon’s Instagram @buckeyethon to learn more about upcoming events.
When asked about how students can stay involved after graduation, they explained there is currently a program for past General Body Members, but they are working to develop an alumni program for past team members, team captains and morale captains. As always, alumni are encouraged to donate to current students, teams or directly to the philanthropy.
As BuckeyeThon continues to achieve considerable successes through this difficult time, they contribute these to their biggest strengths. The first strength is that they showcase the impact the philanthropy is truly making. This is done by bringing BuckeyeThon Kids to all events and display the exact dollar amount raised. This shows students and donors what they are donating towards and the impact they truly have. Additionally, another key strength is how much the organization cares about every team member, team captain and morale captains.
“We wouldn’t be anywhere without each individual student that raises money and awareness. They are the backbone of this organization,” Ben emphasized. “I came to Ohio State looking to be a part of something bigger than myself. I found that through BuckeyeThon, and it is so rewarding to see all the students who experience this same effect.”
Ishan and Ben would like to extend their sincere gratitude to Ohio State students, faculty, alumni, families and donors for their continued efforts and impact in the fight against pediatric cancer.
For The Kids.
