GCSU’s largest student-run organization, GC Miracle, isn’t just about fundraising. It’s about hope. Every year, hundreds of students come together to raise money and awareness for the Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital in Macon.
In 2024, GC Miracle raised more than $81,000 for the hospital, making it the biggest fundraiser on campus. Since it began, the organization has become one of the most recognizable movements at GCSU, a tradition of service, energy and compassion that’s hard to miss.
According to their official website, “Since 2005, GC Miracle has raised over close to $1,000,000 for Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health. That’s almost one million miracles made for the over 500,000 patients served at the Children’s Hospital in the past decade.”
That’s not just a big number, it’s real lives changed. The money raised goes toward everything from new medical equipment to family assistance programs. What makes it special is that every single dollar stays local, directly supporting kids and families in Central Georgia.
GC Miracle describes their motivation on their website: “What pushes everyone to give 110%? Our Miracle Kids. These are the children, ranging from newborn to twenty-two years old, that have directly benefited from the Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health. Having these kids and their families as a part of the GC Miracle family gives us a tangible reason to do all that we can. Everything we do is to change kid’s health!”
Those “Miracle Kids” aren’t just faces on posters. They show up at events, share their stories and remind students why they’re dancing, fundraising and putting in the long hours.
Lilah Gapp, GC Miracle’s co-executive director, said the organization has shaped her college experience. “I absolutely adore being part of a community that comes together to support the kids and families at Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital. Seeing the difference we can make reminds me why I’m so passionate about this cause, it’s bigger than all of us, and it’s truly life-changing!” Gapp said.
Abigail Lee, GC Miracle’s Director of Financial Branch, shared a similar sentiment. “GC Miracle is the most incredible organization to get to be a part of!” Lee said. “Getting to be a part of something that’s bigger than myself has been so eye-opening and rewarding. We fight for miracles and for those who can’t. It’s my favorite thing to ever get to be a part of with so many others who are also passionate about changing kids’ health! It’s cool to care!”
The biggest and most anticipated event of the year is ThunderThon, a 12-hour dance marathon where students stay on their feet for the kids. The event includes games, live music, fundraising challenges and moments with the Miracle Kids themselves.
In spring 2024, ThunderThon raised more than $70,000 in a single day. Hundreds of students packed the Centennial Center for a day full of energy, tears and joy. The reveal moment, when the final donation total is shown, never fails to bring the crowd to tears.
Smaller events keep the spirit going throughout the year, like Miracle Mile, a color-run that brings the whole community together. Students get involved with GC Miracle in all kinds of ways, from joining committees and morale teams to helping plan fundraisers. Some members have personal connections to children’s hospitals, while others join just because they want to make a difference.
Many say being part of the organization has taught them leadership, teamwork and perspective. It’s a hands-on way to see how small acts of kindness, like posting a donation link or writing thank-you letters, can turn into something life-changing.
With ThunderThon 2025 already in the works, GC Miracle is showing no signs of slowing down. The group will continue to host fundraisers and awareness events throughout the fall semester.
Students who want to get involved can visit georgiacollegemiracle.com and click “Get Involved.” Anyone can join, donate or volunteer, no experience required.
At the end of the day, GC Miracle’s mission is simple: for the kids. And for GCSU students, that’s reason enough to dance, serve and give their all.