CHATTIN' WITH A CAPTAIN: ALEXIS SCHARFENKAMP

For this edition of Chattin’ with a Captain, I had the honor of getting to know more about Morale Captain Alexis Scharfenkamp! Alexis is a sophomore from Des Moines, IA studying Public Relations. Her spunky, one-of-a-kind personality always brings so much joy to the Morale Team, and UNI Dance Marathon is incredibly lucky to have her!

When and why did you initially get involved with Dance Marathon? This is my first year being involved with Dance Marathon. I chose to get involved with this organization because after the Big Event last year, it was very clear that I missed out on something so much bigger than myself. Everyone involved with Dance Marathon is so passionate about it, and everything that we do is for the most deserving kiddos on the planet. What inspired you to become a morale captain? I was inspired to apply to be a Morale Captain because everyone that was involved with Dance Marathon last year. They have so much fun doing something that is changing lives. I saw all of the good they were doing for the Miracle Families, and I wanted to be a part of it. What fundraising advice do you have for DM dancers and members? The best fundraising advice that I have is to start now! The sooner you start, the more you can accomplish. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to someone. There are so many people that would love to help you; all you need to do is ask. You won't regret raising money for the kids, and it is so much easier to reach your goal over the span of months instead of trying to raise it all during the day of the Big Event. What has been your favorite experience through Dance Marathon? I have loved every minute of being involved with Dance Marathon. I can't choose one experience because I have had so much fun this year! What have you learned through Dance Marathon? I have learned to truly value the little things. I have taken so much for granted in my life. I thought that the world owed me things like a childhood and health. This organization has given me the opportunity to meet kids that have spent the majority of their childhood in hospitals. I admire every single one of the Miracle Kids. I cannot imagine what it is like to fight like they do. The kids give me hope and so much motivation. What is your favorite thing about DM? I love the people that are involved with Dance Marathon. They care so much and so deeply about others. They are so passionate about what they are doing. I can very confidently say that some of the best people I have met since coming to college, I met through Dance Marathon. What do you look forward to the most as the Big Event approaches? I am so excited for my first Big Event! I can't wait to see everyone's hard work come together and make a huge difference in the lives of all of our Miracle Kids! “It is so easy to become selfish, especially in college. We are stereotypically poor, but we have so much to give. If you don't start giving now, then when will you?” – Alexis Scharfenkamp