Meagan Anderson walks because...

 

 

In the nearly six years since I started working with the March of Dimes, I have made friends, gone on trips, karaoke-d, stayed up for 40 hours straight, assembled a stage, won a free apartment and more. I have pounded the pavements looking to meet my $3,000 fundraising goal $5 at a time. I have seen babies with tubes connected to every inch of their paper thin skin, and I have also seen them grow into healthy toddlers and children who run and play with their friends like nothing ever happened. Through my wonderful journey with the March of Dimes I have done many things, but none more important than helping thousands of babies through my volunteering and fundraising.

 

This year, I renewed my commitment to the March of Dimes through the collegiate chapter, Gators March for Babies. True to form, I pursued the top fundraising spot, and achieved my goal earning $2,300 for the March of Dimes. In return, I received a 12-month lease for a 3-bedroom apartment from the Collier Companies and Boardwalk Apartment Homes. I adore my apartment and over the next year I will save almost $8,000, about the same amount that I have fundraised over my time with MOD. Turns out, giving really does pay off!

 

It has been amazing working with March of Dimes and I am sure that it’s something I will continue with for many years to come. I encourage all young people to volunteer; no matter how much time they have, or how much money, the experience alone is invaluable and to the children you help, you will always matter. Gators March for Babies has been an incredible way to do this for many students at UF and it is yet another opportunity for all Gators to come together for a great time and a great cause.

- Meagan Anderson
  Top Fundraising Walker