WYOMISSING, Pa. — According to the National Children’s Cancer Society 2020 report, an estimated 11,050 children (0–14) and 5,800 adolescents (15–19) will be diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. in 2023. In an effort to support children and their families in the fight against pediatric cancer, Penn State Berks Benefitting THON student organization will host its seventh annual "Inspire the Night" Benefit Dinner from 6 to 10 p.m., Friday, Jan. 12, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading.
The event will provide an evening of fun, inspiration and much more, and is open to students, faculty, staff and community members. Tickets can be purchased directly through the Berks Benefitting THON website. Individual tickets cost $65.
The "Inspire the Night" Benefit Dinner will immerse guests in an understanding of THON, the largest student-run philanthropic event in the world. During THON, Penn State students from each campus are selected to participate in the 46-hour dance marathon at Penn State University Park. THON’s mission is to provide emotional and financial support, spread awareness and ensure funding for critical research — all in pursuit of a cure. Proceeds benefit Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital.
Attendees will hear from families who have been impacted by pediatric cancer and benefited from the funds raised by THON. They will also be invited to the dance floor to experience what THON is like for the student dancers. The event will also include games, raffles and live auctions. Business and community members from Berks County and beyond will be in attendance as the organization honors a significant benefactor with the Lead Believer Award. Last year, Ethosource Office Furniture was recognized with the award for its support of the organization. There will also be a display of artwork created by third- and fourth-graders from Berks County elementary schools who participated in THON’s eighth annual art contest.
Funds raised through events like this help ensure families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing, or food. Last year’s event raised more than $16,000 to help families affected by pediatric cancer. This year, Berks Benefitting THON hopes to increase that amount.
For more information, contact Penn State Berks Benefitting THON special events coordinators Arizona Schreck at ajs8468@psu.edu or Kali Opolsky at kdo5078@psu.edu. To purchase tickets, visit the Berks Benefitting THON site.