It only takes a handful of thoughtful people to make a difference. A group of students at University of North Texas embody this principle as they dedicate themselves to helping others. UNT's Eaglethon is a philanthropic student organization committed to raising awareness and funds to serve the families of Cook Children's and Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

“Eaglethon at UNT has truly given me the opportunity to be an advocate for children at Cook Children's Medical Center and allows me to fight for the next generation each and every day,” said Izzy James, a UNT student and executive director of Eaglethon.

The group kicked off the fall semester with Child Health Day and a fundraiser at Beth Marie's Old Fashion Ice Cream benefiting Cook Children's Medical Center in Fort Worth. The first event of the year-long program welcomed customers and Miracle families to the Denton square location Monday evening. Eaglethon students served ice cream and worked the cash register with 10% of sales plus all tips benefiting Cook Children's. Within two hours, $552.00 was raised. Overall, they raised $5,270.10 for Child Health Day.

Eaglethon at University of North Texas is a unique and exciting tradition dedicated to raising awareness and funds to serve the families of Cook Children's and Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, while engaging students and the UNT community. All the funds raised go toward the creative arts program, connecting creative arts with the art of healing. Throughout the year, students host fundraising and awareness events that culminate with The BIG Day, a six-hour long celebration with dancing, activities, and entertainment. Miracle families from the hospital take part in the event and share their experiences.

“Being a part of Eaglethon means you are a part of something bigger than yourself. Eaglethon is a unique opportunity to bring meaningful impact to both the UNT Community and local community through Cook Children's Medical Center! Together we are changing kids' health, changing the future,” said Alexa Bilich, coordinator for UNT Center for Leadership and Service.

Eaglethon was featured in the top 10 dance marathon organizations as the second-highest fundraising student group across the nation for Child's Health Day.  Eaglethon Director of Operations Maddie Thorn ranked among the top 20 fundraisers during Child's Health Day. Her efforts came in at #11 nationally.

In 2023, Eaglethon raised $27,111 to support Cook Children's and Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. The student organization hopes to exceed their goal of $30,000 in 2024.

Learn more about Eaglethon and the students who work to make a difference.