PISCATAWAY — Rutgers University students danced all night for a good cause.

More than 800 dancers remained on their feet at the Rutgers Athletic Center for the entire 30-hour marathon and raised $622,533.98, said Mandy Frantz of the Rutgers University Dance Marathon.

Individual dancers have to raise at least $350 and volunteers who want to assist at the event have to raise at least $100, according to Frantz. The marathon proceeds benefit the Embrace Kids Foundation, a New Brunswick-based organization that aids children with cancer and blood disorders.

Sara Mahanirananda got a little aid from Alex Small, who helped hold her up as the dance entered the final hour yesterday. “It’s just as enlightening this year as last,” Mahanirananda said. “I do it for the kids,” she added.

This was the dance marathon's 16th year and the event has raised more than $4 million for the local charity.

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