The University of Nebraska Foundation hopes to make a “Big Splash” for UNMC’s Munroe-Meyer Institute on Aug. 28 and 29 with its first-ever recreational and competitive swimming fundraiser in Omaha and Lincoln.
Proceeds will enhance and expand specialized services and programs MMI provides to more than 10,000 individuals and their families each year.
Organizers of the family-friendly event also hope the Big Splash will champion advocacy and inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Swimmers of all abilities are encouraged to sign up for the event. There are also plenty of opportunities to volunteer.
Events include:
Swim and Safety Water Carnival — Friday, Aug. 28, 6 to 9 p.m. at Brownell Talbot
- Swimming lessons;
- Family swim;
- Water safety activities, exhibits and tests;
- Underwater photos; and
- A “dive-in” movie.
Competitive Youth Meet — Saturday, Aug. 29, 8-11 a.m. at Westside and Millard South in Omaha and the Devaney Center in Lincoln
- 25-yard of each stroke for 10-year-olds and younger; and
- 50-yard of each stroke for 11 to 18-year-olds.
Corporate/Adult Swim Challenge — Saturday, Aug. 29, 8 to 11 a.m. at the University of Nebraska at Omaha
- 200-yard medley and/or 200-yard freestyle relays for four person teams
- 100 and 200-yard freestyle individual events
Non-Traditional Swimmer Challenge — Saturday, Aug. 29, 8-11 a.m. at the College of St. Mary — An event for swimmers of all abilities with appropriate supervision and assistance
- Individual events: 50-yard freestyle, 25-yard freestyle and 25-yard backstroke
- Buddy relays
The Big Splash Swim & Splash – Saturday, Aug. 29, noon – 2 p.m.
- Omaha area pools will devote lanes for two hours of relays and swimming events.
Swimmers of all ages and abilities will keep the water turning for and with the children and adults who have benefited from MMI’s services.
In addition to the competitive and recreational events, participants will have an opportunity to meet three-time Olympic gold medalist, Josh Davis.
The Big Splash is sponsored by UNMC, MMI, the Omaha World Herald, Mutual of Omaha, Cassling, Farmers Mutual Insurance of Nebraska and Metro Credit Union.