Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Pennsylvania State University’s Dance Marathon (“THON”)?
- What is the Atlas THON team?
- Who is Victoria Smith?
- Who is Claire Brobson?
- Why should I join the Atlas THON team?
- How big of a time commitment is participating on the Atlas THON team?
- How can I join the Atlas THON team?
- How does the Atlas THON team operate?
- How does the Atlas THON team raise so much money for the kids?
- Can I be a part of the Atlas THON team and on one of THON’s overall committees?
- What is Atlas Navigator? How can I join?
- How do I access the Atlas THON group on ANGEL?
- Are there membership dues associated with Atlas THON?
- What if I have a question that isn’t answered here?
What is Pennsylvania State University’s Dance Marathon (“THON”)?
For over 35 years, the Penn State Dance Marathon has helped raise over $59 million to help children and families fight pediatric cancer. It’s the largest student-run philanthropy in the world. During the Spring semester, hundreds of dancers and thousands of supporters pack the Bryce Jordan Center over the course of 46 hours to raise both money and awareness. You can find much more information on our About page or at the THON Web site.
What is the Atlas THON team?
Atlas THON is a fundraising team that works year-round to raise funds and provide support to the families and children of the Four Diamonds Fund. We are an independent team, meaning that we have no Greek affliation. We do THON — that’s who we are. We are group of students who support an amazing cause and have a blast while doing so. Any student is encouraged to join regardless of age, college/major, or living location. Learn more on our About page.
Who is Victoria Smith?
The Smith family and their daughter, Victoria (shown above), are our motivation and hope that our team’s efforts will one day help lead to a cure for pediatric cancer. They’ve been with the team since the beginning. You can see a video of her featured on our multimedia page.
Who is Claire Brobson?
In 2008, the Brobson family and their daughter, Claire, became another reason for Atlas’s commitment to fighting pediatric cancer. The Brobsons are our newest THON family! Parents Kevin and Lauren have three energetic children. Their oldest daughter Claire was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in December of 2007. She loves school, swimming, animals, and going fishing. Will, the middle child, enjoys any activity during which he can run around. He loves doing yard work with Kevin and dream of being a firefighter when he grows up. Gabe is the baby of the family. He is full of smiles and laughs.
Why should I join the Atlas THON team?
The Atlas THON team is an absolute blast. Although we’re service-oriented, we’ve set the bar high for fun — everything from barbecues with our THON family to entertainment outings to sporting events. We’ve also been known to host a pretty decent social or two.
How big of a time commitment is participating on the Atlas THON team?
Atlas is as large of a commitment as you want to make it. Meeting attendance is strongly encouraged, but we understand what it’s like being a busy college student (since all our members are ones). Please support Atlas and THON in whatever capacity you can.
How can I join the Atlas THON team?
Check our Web site for the next general meeting you can attend and introduce yourself to Dan Levy who will help you become familiar with the group and add you to the newsletter. You can also email Dan Levy to become a member of Atlas. Be sure to join the Atlas THON Facebook group as well.
How does the Atlas THON team operate?
Atlas has nearly 200 active members. There’s an executive board as well as numerous committees within Atlas with which to get involved — including family relations, social, canning, and donor relations. Atlas is a great opportunity to step up and earn some valuable leadership experience.
How does the Atlas THON team raise so much money for the kids?
It’s a result of lots of hard work and dedication from all of our members. Canning weekends (appealing for donations in prominent areas on four designated dates throughout the year) are major contributors. Letter writing campaigns, pledge books and soliciting of corporate sponsorships are other key ways of fundraising.
Can I be a part of the Atlas THON team and on one of THON’s overall committees?
Absolutely! You are strongly encouraged to join one of the THON committees to help THON weekend run smoothly. You can apply to any of the committees at this Web site. It’s a great way to meet people and further your involvement in the world’s largest student-run philanthropy.
What is Atlas Navigator? How can I join?
Atlas Navigator is the web tool used by Atlas members and officers to facilitate communication and access other members-only features. Already an Atlas member? Join Navigator using your Penn State email address now. For more information about the software itself, visit the developer’s Web site.
How do I access the Atlas THON group on ANGEL?
All you need to do is log onto ANGEL and then under “My Groups” click on Atlas THON. If you are not a member of the ANGEL group, at your ANGEL homepage, under “My Groups,” click “Find a Group” and search for “Atlas THON.” Join the “Atlas THON Team” ANGEL group.
Are there membership dues associated with Atlas THON?
No, there are never any costs to join Atlas THON, but some trips and socials may entail an expense (e.g., a poker tournament).
What if I have a question that isn’t answered here?
Contact the officer who’s most related to your question, or contact the executive chair, Dan Levy. Names, titles, and email addresses can be found on our home page.
