November 9, 2004 -- Up ’til Dawn is a student-led, student-run philanthropic program in which college students nationwide raise funds for and awareness of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  Students at the C.W. Post Campus of Long Island University in Brookville, New York are participating in the program by sponsoring a year of fund-raising that culminates with an all-night extravaganza to celebrate their success.

“It is heart-warming that C.W. Post has opened its doors to a student-run organization that solely raises funds for children in need. Up ’til Dawn helps thousands of children nationwide receive adequate health care when faced with rare diseases,” said Eric Lucrezia, Assistant Director of Student Life and Leadership Development. “The C.W. Post community is extremely honored to be one of the homes of a nationally renowned organization that unites the student population to help thousands of children in need,” added Lucrezia.

Up ’til Dawn unites students, faculty, sponsors and the surrounding community in a goal to help the kids of St. Jude.  Since 1998, over 135 schools have joined in the cause to raise more than $5.5 million for the hospital.  The recent increase in service learning initiatives on campuses nationwide is a clear indicator that college students today are looking for a way to give back to their communities.  Up ‘til Dawn provides students that chance by providing an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of children.

Fundraising activities include letter writing campaigns, “canning days” where students collect as much loose change as possible, and the sale of bracelets at student events.

Whittier, California resident Shannon Swaggerty, a junior majoring in public relations and the director of Up ’til Dawn at C.W. Post, had a chance to visit St. Jude Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee in June. "It’s been great learning about what St. Jude does for children and how these families are impacted every day," she said. "I’m lucky enough to attend college, and now I want these kids to see their college years, too. I want them to have the wonderful experiences that I have had.”

The executive board for Up ’til Dawn is comprised of a diverse group of C.W. Post students. The students are working hard to involve the local community in raising money for the kids of St. Jude. For further information on how to get involved in this project, please e-mail UpTilDawnCWP@yahoo.com or call (516) 299-3909.