Explore THON Supply Logistics with Gwen Yetter
Every year, Penn Stater gathers for a 46-hour dance marathon, lead by the largest student-run philanthropy in the world. THON's mission is to provide emotional and financial support, spread awareness, and ensure funding for research to someday find a cure for childhood cancer. Learn more about how Gwen Yetter, THON's Supply Logistic Director, helps to organize and track inventory for the weekend.
What is your major and year?
I am part of the BS/MBA 5-year program, so my majors are Biology and Psychology, my minor is in Neuroscience, and I am also working towards my MBA. I am currently a 5th year.
What is your role and duties relating to THON?
As the Supply Logistics Director, I oversee the organization, upkeep, and data tracking of all of THON's inventory locations. I work with 19 SL Captains to contact donors and obtain in-kind donations used at every event throughout the year. Additionally, I assist my inventory team to ensure supplies are readily available and provided to other committees as needed. Furthermore, Supply Logistics organizes the THON Raffle and other THON initiatives such as the Costume Drive, Hershey Holiday Toy Drive, Gift Card Initiative, and the Extra Items Drive which I oversee throughout the year.
How far in advance do you have to start preparing/ordering materials for the weekend?
Planning starts in April! Because we provide supplies for both pre-THON and THON Weekend events, we contact potential donors all year long to secure in-kind donations that help to ensure 95 cents of every dollar can go directly to the kids. With that being said, the timeline also differs a bit based on the items we are looking for and how time sensitive the supply request is.
What supplies do you order and what is the quantity of the supplies?
The supplies I work to obtain throughout and their respective quantities very significantly - we may be working to obtain a dozen radios or hundreds of medical supplies at any one given point in time. We group the supplies we work on into the following categories: Medical Supplies, Paper and Office Supplies, Toys, Games, Technology & Sporting Goods, Sustainability, and Arts, Crafts & Fabric.
Have you faced any issues relating to ordering or receiving supplies (due to supply chain issues)?
Yes, we have noticed the supply chain issues in relation to our work. For instance, we’ve recognized the importance of starting critical donations early to add a buffer for any supply chain delays. We have also noticed that some in-kind donors have not been able to make contributions this year that they have in the past as a result of the challenges, meaning we have had to explore alternatives.
How do you see this role benefiting your career in the future?
This role has taught me a significant amount about working with donors, obtaining supplies for a variety of needs, and working with and managing large groups of people in a professional setting.
The lessons learned and skills developed will directly influence my future career in terms of my work ethic and how I go about working as a team.
