Four Diamonds Mini-THONs Raise More Than $6.4 Million for Childhood Cancer Care and Research

Four Diamonds Mini-THON students raised more than $6.4 million during the 2025-26 school year, pushing the program’s total fundraising past $83 million, according to Penn State Health. 

Students from more than 200 schools across Pennsylvania and neighboring states raised a combined $6,478,166.86 to support children and families affected by childhood cancer through Four Diamonds. 

The latest total was announced during the annual Mini-THON Leadership Summit in Hershey, where hundreds of student leaders and advisors gathered to celebrate the fundraising year and prepare for the next one. 

Money raised through Mini-THON helps provide financial assistance and comprehensive care to eligible children receiving cancer treatment at Penn State Health Golisano Children’s Hospital. 

Funds also support pediatric cancer research at Penn State College of Medicine. 

“Year after year, Mini-THON students continue to inspire us with their compassion, creativity and unwavering commitment to helping children with cancer,” Suzanne Graney, executive director of Four Diamonds, said. “The impact of their efforts extends far beyond fundraising. They are providing hope to children and families, advancing lifesaving research and developing into leaders who understand the power of giving back.” 

Throughout the 2025-26 school year, students and volunteers organized fundraisers and community events to support Four Diamonds. The program is modeled after Penn State’s annual THON and gives K-12 students the opportunity to participate in multi-hour events celebrating their yearlong fundraising efforts. 

In addition to raising money, Mini-THON provides students with experience in communication, critical thinking and teamwork while connecting them with families affected by childhood cancer and the researchers working to develop new treatments. 

Cumberland Valley High School was also recognized during this year’s summit after becoming the first Mini-THON school to surpass $4 million in lifetime fundraising. 

The annual leadership summit gives student leaders an opportunity to share fundraising ideas, participate in leadership development sessions and learn about the impact of their efforts from Four Diamonds families and cancer researchers. 

Since its founding in 1993, the Mini-THON program has contributed more than $83 million toward Four Diamonds’ efforts to support pediatric cancer care and research at Penn State.

Information about joining or starting a Four Diamonds Mini-THON is available through Four Diamonds.