Through fundraising culminating in signature Dance Marathon events, Georgia College Miracle and Mercer University Miracle raised a combined $214,487 in 2021 to help children served by Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital.

“We are so proud to partner with the students of Mercer University Miracle and Georgia College Miracle. These dedicated students raise awareness and funds all year long for Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital,” said Renee Bryan, development officer for the Navicent Health Foundation. “They’re one generation fighting for the 46,000 children who are cared for in our children’s hospital each year. Thank you so much for your continued support.”

In a year that saw colleges shifting to virtual classes, a limit on in-person events, social distancing and other changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, Georgia College Miracle raised $130,131 and Mercer University Miracle raised $84,355.

Founded in 2005, Georgia College Miracle is the largest student-led fundraiser on campus at Georgia College and State University. Since its founding, the organization has raised $1,190,435 to benefit the children’s hospital.

“The miracles that GC Miracle has contributed to making happen for the kids being treated at Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital are more than I could imagine. What started out as a simple post on social media for donations has turned into a whole part of my life I could not imagine living without,” said Georgia Gillen, 2021 executive director for Georgia College Miracle. “I know that for the rest of my life I will be grateful for these kids and the change they have made in my life. By continuing working for these kids through Georgia College Miracle I can give back a sliver of what these kids have given to me."

Mercer University Miracle was founded in February 2016 by three seniors who were eager to do more for the Macon community. The organization has grown to be Mercer University’s largest student-run organization with more than $374,000 raised for Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital since the group’s founding.

“I joined this organization because I believe every family deserves to have the peace that their child will receive the best care, regardless of their unique circumstances or financial status. As I met more and more miracle families, I have had the privilege to observe not only their unmatched passion for life, but also their lives as children. While their stories are emotional and motivating, they truly are real kids who deserve their childhood outside of the hospital walls,” said Ashton Taylor, Mercer University Miracle executive director. “Seeing a common passion bring together a campus and community in ways you wouldn’t expect is incredible. Being able to inspire others to join a cause bigger than themselves and to watch their passion grow for these kids is an opportunity I will forever be grateful to be a part of.”

Both organizations are kicking off their 2021-22 campaigns. To donate, visit https://www.georgiacollegemiracle.com and  https://mumiracle.org.