The annual “Duckling Waddle” jog-a-thon, which raises money for the Moss Street Children’s Center and the Vivian Olum Child Development Center, will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Hayward Practice Field.
Students, children and parents have been gathering pledges that will turn into funds to buy new computers for classrooms and offices, and other needed equipment, said April Weilbacher, the student-parent representative at the Moss Center.
In addition to the $1,000 to $2,000 Weilbacher said they hope to raise, she said an additional goal of this event is to raise awareness.
“There is such a need for high quality childcare if you’re a student or a parent,” she said.
Weilbacher said the majority of students aren’t aware there are children on campus, and a lot of students, faculty and staff utilize the facilities these organizations provide.
The Moss Center also fills a majority of their entry-level positions with University student workers, which is a good learning experience for child development and early education majors, she said.
“A large majority of our lead staff started as students 20 years ago,” Weilbacher said.
Saturday’s event will also host children’s games and provide a photo opportunity with the University’s mascot.
For more information on participating in the event, making a pledge or giving a flat donation, contact the Moss Street Children’s Center at (541) 346-4384 or the Vivian Olum Child Development Center at (541) 346-6586.
– Tess McBride