5K walk to raise money for March of Dimes

November 5, 2010

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – On average, 633 babies are born prematurely every week in Florida, and the rate of premature birth has risen 33 percent since 1981.

Gators March for Babies, a 5K walk on Nov. 14, is aimed at fighting this prematurity epidemic by raising money for the March of Dimes, a nationally recognized organization whose mission is to prevent and treat infant prematurity and birth defects.

“Last year we raised $61,000 for the babies and this year we are hoping to raise even more,” said Jenna Harris, overall director of Gators March for Babies. “We have more than 1,000 walkers registered so far, so I know we can do it.”

Registration for the event will begin at noon in Turlington Plaza. The walk will start at 1 p.m. and follow a marked path through UF’s campus. Spirit Stations along the route will provide walkers with snacks, drinks and plenty of encouragement.

After finishing the walk, participants will enjoy entertainment, inspirational stories from March of Dimes mission families, and free food from local businesses, including Dominos, Zaxby’s, The Gelato Company, Planet Smoothie, Moe’s and The Flying Biscuit.

Prizes will be awarded to top fundraisers including a year’s lease at Boardwalk Apartments, a free scooter, two free socials, test preparation courses from Kaplan, and other gifts from Gainesville stores.

To participate, walkers must raise a minimum of $25 and can register at the event or online at www.gatorsmarchforbabies.org.

“Gators have proven we can be champions in basketball and football,” Harris said, “now it’s time to be champions for babies.”