Ignite is a student-led organization at Indiana Wesleyan University focused on raising funds and awareness for pediatric oncology research and care at Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital (PMCH) in Indianapolis.
Through a combination of events and fundraisers, the group tried to engage the IWU community and the surrounding area in supporting the cause throughout the last year.
Jamie Bryant, president and chief brand and strategy officer of Ignite, discussed the group’s mission.
“The goal of Ignite is to raise funds and awareness for pediatric oncology research and care at PMCH in Indianapolis,” Bryant said. “We do this by hosting on-campus events to engage students and off-campus events fundraisers to invite the community into the process,” Bryant said.
Bryant said a major highlight of the semester was the “Birthday Bash,” which he said celebrated all that God did in Ignite’s first year since transitioning from Dance Marathon.
“In year one, we were able to raise over $13,000 and foster a great relationship with PMCH and the foundation, laying the groundwork for miracles to come because of the willingness of our student body and their families to get involved,” Bryant said.
Sophomore Isaiah Lowe, who participated in Ignite’s “Mr. Flame” event, said the experience was very beneficial to him.
“I put a band together last minute, and we ended up winning the talent show,” Lowe said. “It felt amazing, and I got 13 Instagram follow requests and a $25 IHOP gift card.”
Lowe also said other students on campus should get involved.
“I would definitely recommend it to anyone. It’s a great way to have fun and make connections,” Lowe said.
Ben Pavy, a sophomore who assisted with photography at the Ignite “Christmas Disco,” said he really enjoyed working for the organization.
“It’s been rewarding to help with events like this,” Pavy said. “I’m excited to continue supporting Ignite and see how it grows.”
Bryant said Ignite plans to roll out some new ways for the IWU student body to get more missionally involved next semester.
“This exciting new project will include a ton of campus events, a week-long community partnership initiative, and some fun merch to get students involved with the mission,” Bryant said. “We also plan to host PMCH families in the spring!”
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