Apollo

Join us on February 21, 2025

Make a difference in the life of a child today

46 hours. No sitting, no sleeping. The fight continues on…

What is THON? What is Apollo?

THON is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world, unlike any other program you will ever see. Made up of over 16,500 student volunteers, we work to ensure that children and families impacted by childhood cancer will never pay a cent for their treatment.

Apollo, introduced into the THON community just 11 years ago, is a special interest organization dedicated solely to raising money and awareness for the fight against childhood cancer. Our organization alone has raised over $1 million. We are honored to be partnered with three Four Diamonds families: the Yohes, the Sanchezes, and the Mummerts.

We stand for 46 hours straight to fight for the kids on their way to beating cancer, and to honor those who have lost their battles. In Apollo, we live by one simple acronym, NGU. Never Give Up.

THON Weekend

From February 21th to 23th, thousands of students and families will stand for 46 hours straight in support of the fight against pediatric cancer. Countless hours and fundraisers throughout the year all lead up to this moment. Apollo was proud to be represented by our 2024 dancers: Layth Khan, Sam MacMillan, Hope Neal, Cait McHenry, and Dylan Terry.

Throughout the Year...

Dream Forward: Lasting from October 24th to November 9th, Dream Forward was a 3-week-long fundraising campaign created by THON to further support its Four Diamonds family beneficiaries. During this short period of time alone, the THON community raised $1.2 million.

Giving Tuesday: Held each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, this day was marked by amazing contributions to THON's efforts. THON partnered with Johnson & Johnson to match donations made this day, doubling and even tripling the impact of our generous donors.

Family Carnival: THON and Apollo aren't just about raising money, they also form valuable relationships with the Four Diamonds families they serve. This year, THON held an under-the-sea-themed family carnival for everyone to enjoy.

Apollo's Fundraisers: Apollo held many unique fundraisers throughout the year including Food Truck Fiesta, Trivia Night, and Date or Dare. We also raised funds through mail and email solicitations, donation boxes, and held our very own push weeks to encourage friends and family to donate online.

Our Impact

Donations to THON go a long way toward the fight against childhood cancer. Every dollar’s impact is felt by a child and their family, whether it be through the excellent care the children receive during their fight or the fact that no family in the Four Diamonds care will ever see a bill.

THON, Apollo, and all the other special interest organizations at Penn State were formed by groups of students who all shared the same dream: ending childhood cancer. With your help, we can make that dream become a reality.

How can you help?

Please consider making a donation using the link at the top of the page. No matter how big or small, every dollar makes a difference. If you have already donated this year, reach out to your employer to see if they would be willing to match your donation. Many companies have matching programs, and it is a fantastic way to double or even triple your donation to THON.