The first CHOP Dance-a-thon in 2022 raised close to $6,000 (Credit: Jane Lopoten School of Dance)
Students, families, and the community step up to support pediatric cancer care and creative therapies on Sunday
The beat drops at 1 p.m. this Sunday, and for two joyful, high-energy hours, the Jane Lopoten School of Dance will turn rhythm into impact during its 4th Annual Dance-a-thon benefitting Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
The event, held from 1 to 3 p.m. at the studio at 526 N. Broad St. in Lansdale, unites dancers, families, and supporters for a shared mission: to raise $5,000 for CHOP’s Child Life, Education and Creative Arts Therapy Program and Integrative Health Oncology Program — initiatives that bring light and healing to children facing medical challenges.
Since its launch, the Dance-a-thon has raised more than $15,000 for CHOP, and this year’s edition promises even more energy and heart. Participants are encouraged to “get their glow on” by wearing gold and black — the official colors for Pediatric Cancer Awareness — or their 2025 Dance-a-thon T-shirt. Throughout the afternoon, dancers will keep spirits high while watching real-time donation totals climb toward their goal.
Halfway through the event, at 2 p.m., the studio will pause for one of its most anticipated moments — the reveal of the 2026 Recital Theme, a closely guarded annual tradition. Then, from 3 to 4 p.m., the celebration continues with a brand-new addition: the Dance-a-thon After Party Parade. Participants will “walk and sashay” down Main Street, Lansdale, collecting donations from local businesses and spreading awareness with balloons, banners, and plenty of dance-floor energy.
Every donation directly supports CHOP’s holistic approach to pediatric care — from art and music therapy to mindfulness, acupuncture, and massage therapy offered through its Child Life, Education and Creative Arts Therapy Program and Integrative Oncology Program. Together, these programs help children and families find strength, expression, and comfort during treatment.
Supporters can donate directly or sponsor a dancer through the studio’s official CHOP fundraiser page or by using the studio’s sponsor sheet. Even $5 donations make a difference — if each student collects five sponsors, the studio will be halfway to its goal.
So, lace up your sneakers, wear your brightest gold, and get ready to dance “for the kids” — because every beat, every step, and every smile helps CHOP bring more healing, hope, and creativity to children who need it most.
