Classes have started, the quarterback carousel is turning, and canning weekends are here. Ah, yes, fall is upon us. As a former THON chair, I know that canning is great way to meet new friends and raise money for the cause that we all love and adore. In preparation for this weekend, here are a few tips for both veterans and first-timers.
Last week, I had the opportunity to sit down and speak with each of the THON Overalls. As the Onward State’s THON senior content producer, I figured it would be in my best interest to get to know each of them a little bit, as well as introduce them to myself.
THON is a year-long event, and sometimes we forget just how vital our battle is along the way. The passion surges back here and there, but it usually isn’t until THON weekend that we realize the lasting impact we make in the children’s, family’s, and each other’s lives. Listening to the Overalls, I have learned a few lessons that I believe will not only help make THON the best it can possibly be, but help bring a little more love into this world that so desperately needs it.
THON Committee interviews started on Monday and will carry on throughout this week. These interviews are not like the one you are going to encounter at the Career Fair, but they're more formal than just a chat among friends.
As a fresh Penn Stater, understanding the difference between a THON committee and a THON organization is a bit difficult. THON in general is a bit difficult to wrap your head around. Luckily, my older brother went to Penn State, and so I had someone to explain the situation to me. For those who are not as fortunate as I, yesterday evening's New To THON offered students the opportunity to attain a solid foundation of what makes THON tick.
With committee applications out and special interest organizations beginning to meet, the THON 2012 season is quickly getting underway. This evening, THON will host will host New to THON for students who haven't previously been involved in the largest student-run philanthropy in the world.
For those of you who are new to Penn State or live under a rock, the IFC/Panhellenic Dance Marathon (aka THON) is probably the biggest thing at Penn State besides football. THON is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world and has raised over $78 million since 1973 for the Four Diamonds Fund. THON 2012 will be happening February 17th-19th, but the time to get involved is now.
Since THON is such a big deal and almost every club, sport, or organization participates, there are literally hundreds of opportunities. The most common way is to join a THON committee. There are 11 committees that need about 3,500 students to help make THON 2012 the best it possibly can be. We're here to help you pick the right one and give some tips on the process.