Founded in 2007, UDance Dance Marathon is the largest student-run philanthropic organization at the University of Delaware. UDance is a year-long effort to fight childhood cancer and benefits the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation, named in honor of a student-athlete from Wilmington, Delaware who was diagnosed and died from leukemia at just 14 years old. The foundation provides financial and emotional support to families of children with cancer across the country, as well as funding toward cancer research. McDonough’s blood type (B+) inspired the organization’s message to “be positive.”

While the entire year’s effort culminates in a 12-hour dance marathon in April, there are countless other events leading up to the day of the event. One of the most beloved events is the FTKickoff, which takes place this year on Saturday, September 24 at 4 p.m. ahead of the UD home football game against the Hampton Pirates at 6 p.m.

“FTKickoff is a tailgate for our B+ Heroes and families, as well as students and UDance reps,” said UDance Event Operations Director Jen Moran. “At the tailgate, there will be food, games and many photo ops, followed by an in-game recognition of our B+ Heroes.”

B+ Heroes are children who have fought or are currently fighting cancer and are paired with UD organizations such as RSOs, Greek Life chapters and athletic teams. These groups cultivate very strong bonds with their B+Heroes and provide light during an extremely dark time. Seventeen B+Heroes will be attending the event this year.

Located just outside of the Delaware Stadium, the tailgate in The Barn will feature face painting, cornhole, balloon animals, dancing and more. While many UDance events center around raising money, FTKickoff is focused on having fun with the UDance community and supporting the UD football team. 

“I wish all students knew that UDance is more than just fundraising,” said Moran. “Yes, we have strong efforts in raising money, but it is also about the connections and relationships with our B+ Heroes.”

If you are interested in becoming involved with UDance, attend FTKickoff and look out for their calendar of upcoming events, including the glow-in-the-dark Rave Run 5K on October 4 on The Green. 

“This October, we also have Why Wednesday, a lantern lighting and reflection night, and FTKarnival, our new carnival themed Trabant Now event,” said Moran. 

Moran also promoted the B+ Hero Holiday Party on December 4, which will include cookie decorating, crafts, games and a special talent show put on by the B+ Heroes.

“Everything UDance does is striving to give our B+ Heroes a place to be kids, outside of hospital rooms and treatment centers,” said Moran.

This blog post is written by our Division of Student Life student intern Lindsey McLaughlin.