The NSU Autism Institute’s Baudhuin preschool, feeding clinic, speech clinic and research clinic will host the Bounce for Autism event on March 30 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Miami Dolphins Training Facility Dome.
The event aims to raise money and awareness for the NSU Autism Institute, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the preschool and feeding, speech and research clinics. At the autism awareness fair, there will be bounce houses, activities, food trucks and an appearance from DJ Zog of Miami’s Power 96, as well as tabling from several student organizations.
“It’s going to be an interprofessional event, so we do have organizations from the health division, from undergraduate [colleges], from the psychology college and so forth,” said Ashley Dabalsa, student in the college of pharmacy and founder of the event. “It’s all of NSU coming together for this event. It is community-wide, so we have children with and without autism who will be attending the event.”
Undergraduate student organizations are urged to contact Dabalsa at ad1489@mynsu.nova.edu to table at the event. Additionally, for students, the event is an opportunity to network.
“It is something that is growing by the year— more and more children are being born with and developing autism. It’s something that’s affecting everyone around us.”
-Ashley Dabalsa
“These undergraduate students are going to see students who are in the health professions… they’re seeing themselves in the future. They’re getting to network and build friendships with us in HPD,” added Dabalsa.
Everyone is encouraged to attend the event, as it will have activities for people of all ages. There will be three bounce houses that are for adults, meaning students, parents and other older event-goers can have fun as well. Dabalsa hopes that the event will help bring awareness to people who otherwise wouldn’t have gotten involved with the cause.
“It is something that is growing by the year— more and more children are being born with and developing autism. It’s something that’s affecting everyone around us. Even though the best thing to do is to try to make them feel as comfortable as possible, and as normal as possible, it’s something we need to bring awareness to,” said Dabalsa.
The event is open to the public, with $5 admission. Ride tickets are $1 each. For more information about the event, email bounceforautism@gmail.com. Donations can be made at /www.givecampus.com/schools/novasoutheasternuniversity/bounce-for-autism.
