BuckeyeThon raises $16 million over 25 years, debuts new fundraising tactics at kickoff

BuckeyeThon has collected more than $16 million for Nationwide Children’s Hospital over the past 25 years. Aayush Vishwanath, vice president of programming for the organization, stated that this total reflects the cumulative work of members who have served over the last four to five years.

The organization marks this milestone during its annual Runway Rally, scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at the hospital located at 700 Children’s Dr. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., according to Prathisha Krishna, director of events for BuckeyeThon. The gathering serves as the primary kickoff for newly recruited team members.

Vishwanath described the event as a crucial introduction to the 16 Champion Kids currently supported by the group. These children are diagnosed with pediatric cancer and blood disorders. Team members attend to hear the children's stories and to learn how to effectively fundraise for the hospital.

Krishna noted that the event includes training on the Donor Drive system, which members use to manage their fundraising efforts. The session teaches students how to approach friends and family for specific amounts, such as $10, to support the cause.

A central feature of the evening allows Champion Kids to select clothing from Abercrombie & Fitch to wear on the runway. Krishna said the fashion choices reveal each child's personality, with some appearing shyer and others more outgoing. This visual element helps attendees connect with the children on a personal level.

Vishwanath added that the organization is also spotlighting a student who is currently battling pediatric cancer. He explained that many students do not have immediate personal connections to these diagnoses, making it difficult for them to grasp how common these conditions are on campus.

This year’s event introduces a new fundraising competition where every $5 donation adds a bead to a jar at each table. The jars are then weighed or counted to determine winners. The organization is also expanding a segment called Push 15, a dedicated window for students to contact their networks for donations.

During last year’s Push 15 activity, which lasted 10 minutes, BuckeyeThon raised more than $7,000. This year, the segment will last 15 minutes. Krishna said participants will use their phones to text known contacts, sharing Champion Kid stories to encourage contributions.

Neil Hariths, president of BuckeyeThon, stated in an email that the event aims to give new members a stronger understanding of the organization's mission. He said meeting the children and hearing their experiences helps students see beyond the fundraising numbers and recognize the human impact of the work.

Hariths emphasized that while the financial total is substantial, the core focus remains on the families receiving support. The event provides a direct link between the college community and the patients at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.