Campus Life

Stomp the Swamp to benefit autism center

A student group is inviting Gainesville and University of Florida community members to do stadiums for a cause at Stomp the Swamp for Autism on Feb. 6.

IMPACT Autism organizes the annual event, which is from 10 a.m.-noon at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, to benefit UF’s Center for Autism and Related Disabilities.

In teams or as individuals, participants run or walk the stadium’s steps or inner loop. Kids 12 and under can participate in a free obstacle course along with activities for families.

KISS 105.3 will provide live entertainment, and various UF organizations, community groups and student athletes will share information and cheer on the participants. The event includes breakfast, along with the chance to win prizes, including gym memberships and gift cards.

Last year, over 500 participants raised over $9,000 for UF CARD. This helped them to give away safety boxes with items for parents in case their autistic child wanders away, such as bracelets and shoe tags with the child’s information. The proceeds also support parent and peer tutoring groups and fund assistance for those on the autism spectrum, including schedules and manual communication aids.

On-site sign-up begins when gates open at 9 a.m. Donations for the event on-site are $20, and extra event shirts will be on sale at the event for $10.

For more information, please call 352-273-0581.

Aileen Mack Author
January 29, 2016