This year’s Dance Marathon is Nov. 16. Though the date is rapidly approaching, organizers say there’s still time to sign up.

Dance Marathon is a 15-hour event that begins at 9 a.m. and involves dancing, playing games and raising money for children who have had a life-threatening illness, disease or injury.

Each year, participants are challenged to remain on their feet for 15 hours, including during meals.

“You can endure this for 15 hours because these kids have endured so much,” said Brain Woods, committee member for Dance Marathon.

To help keep energy levels up, choreographed morale dances are taught to all participants and are performed every hour, he said.

In addition to the annual dance event, many other activities are also planned.

“Dance Marathon is a once-a-year event, but other events are held throughout the year,” said Emily Smith, special events co-director for Dance Marathon.

The families and committee members arrange trips to Adventureland, car washes and golf tournaments throughout the year, she said.

A kick-off concert, duck race and mini-marathon at Ames High School are also held during the year to boost support for Dance Marathon, said Smith, senior in psychology.

This year’s event is moving from the Great Hall of the Memorial Union to the Lied Recreation Center. More than 400 ISU students and the families of 25 children are expected to participate.

Money raised for Dance Marathon is donated to Children’s Miracle Network and the Children’s Hospital in Iowa City, said Woods, sophomore in management.

“Dance Marathon is special because it benefits local children,” he said.

Last year, around $126,000 was raised. The goal for this year is $150,000, Woods said.

Participants are asked to pay a registration fee of $20 and raise $180 by collecting donations from their family and friends, he said.

Iowa State’s Dance Marathon is one of several held throughout the region. One of the largest events takes place at the University of Iowa, Smith said.

The deadline to register for Dance Marathon is Friday. For more information, stop by the Youth Student Space in the Memorial Union or call 294-3805.