Why We Dance
HuskyTHON’s fundraising efforts directly support Connecticut Children’s Greatest Need Children’s Fund. Connecticut Children’s is the only health system in Connecticut 100% dedicated to kids. Connecticut Children’s has more than 30 pediatric specialties in 40+ locations throughout Connecticut, Eastern New York, and Western Massachusetts.
“I dance for my younger brother, Brett. Brett is 17 and was born with Duplication 15q syndrome, which presents as low-functioning autism, severe cognitive impairment, blindness, refractory epilepsy, and multiple other disabilities. Supporting Connecticut Children’s means helping out kids that may be similar to Brett and building the future of children’s health in general. It is hard sometimes to be away from him while I am at school, and participating in HuskyTHON allows me to feel like I’m still connected to him.”
Brady Levensohn
Director of Corporate partners, 2026
“I dance for the millions of kids who can’t. Participating in HuskyTHON changed my perspective, showing me that dedicating a portion of my time and energy is a small sacrifice compared to what these children go through every day. I dance to give them hope and inspire others to be a part of a change that is bigger than themselves.”
Ishita Kumar
Morale Captain, 2026
“I dance for every single child impacted and aided by the amazing work of Connecticut Children’s and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals all over the country, especially my cousin John who has received the best care throughout his entire life! “
“I dance for the kids and families at Connecticut Children’s. HuskyTHON has allowed me to find my purpose on and off the UConn campus, supporting the patients at Connecticut Children’s, while connecting with others who share my passion for this cause.”
Andrew Nash
Program Development Manager, Children’s Miracle Network
“I was fortunate to have a happy, healthy childhood, but so many kids don’t get to have that same privilege. I’m fighting to provide every child with an opportunity to do the things that kids love to do – play, laugh, and smile – with the comfort of knowing that their healthcare needs will be taken care of.”
Natalie Orris
Dancer Representative, 2026
“I dance because I grew up at Connecticut Children’s and know what it’s like to have many appointments, scans/tests, surgeries, hospitalizations, etc. I dance so every child receiving care can have a good experience, as I did. “
Mackenzie Jacob
Captain, 2022
“When I was in pre-school, my best friend Alexis was diagnosed with a heart disease and not long after she passed away at age 4. Her family relied so much on our local children’s hospital for love and support. Seeing what an impact these organizations have on getting families through the scariest times was a major reason why I got involved with HuskyTHON as soon as I could.”
I dance for kids to experience more adventures. To seek out all the thrills, joys, and excursions the world has to offer. To be able to travel to new places and see how the world is different anywhere you go, and how each place has its own beauty. Kids deserve to see new places, travel, visit crazy destinations, and do things that allow them to have fun and be excited!