UW-Madison's Dance Marathon committee auctioned off students as dates Friday to raise money for their February event.
Twelve students were auctioned off in Library Mall for a total of $650. The turnout was lower than in past years due to the weather, according to Sara Lind, spokesperson for Dance Marathon.
\We raised a little bit less money, but we still made a good [amount], so we are still happy,"" she said.
Although the crowd was smaller, the auction drew attention of many passersby. Some even partook in the bidding.
The highest bidders not only received dates, but gift certificates to local restaurants such as The Great Dane, 123 E. Doty St., and The Opus Lounge, 116 King St.
UW-Madison sophomore Libby Olien, who said she was nervous about the amount she would raise, received the highest bid of $120.
""I was just hoping I would sell,"" she said. ""That [bid] exceeded my expectations by far.""
Kris Haas, a UW-Madison junior and Ali Tock, a UW-Madison freshman, were auctioned off as a pair and received $40. Haas said she was not concerned with the amount they would raise.
""I was doing it for the cause,"" Haas said.
Many auctioneers and bidders echoed Haas' sentiment.
Christy Coombs, a UW-Madison junior who won a date, emphasized the importance of contributing to charity.
""We're all poor college students, but I like to help out when I can,"" she said.
However, Coombs said she is hesitant about bidding for a date again next year.
""It depends who's out there. I would have to see the crew before I decide,"" she joked.
Dance Marathon raises money for Camp Heartland, the UW Children's Hospital, and the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. It will be held February 20-21.
