More than 20 student organizations and departments are joining forces with UA’s Off Campus Student Services and the SOuRCe, as well as members of the Leggett Area Block Watch to give children in the University Park neighborhood around campus a safe trick-or-treat experience on Thursday, Oct. 28.

The "Trunk or Treat" event, which promises lots of goblins, games and goodies, will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. both inside and outside the Leggett Community Learning Center at 333 E. Thornton St.

This community outreach effort is designed to bring back the trick-or-treat experience after more than a decade’s absence in the neighborhood. Other participants include the University Park Alliance, University Police and Akron Police.

UA students to give time, candy and goodwill

Groups participating in the trick-or-treat part of the evening will have their vehicles lined up in the parking lot so children can collect their treats from the trunks. Inside, there will be cookies, hot chocolate, crafts and games.

Although costumes are not required for participating groups, Denise Montanari, assistant director of Off Campus Student Services, expects a colorful turnout.

“It’s going to be phenomenal, everything from ‘The Wizard of Oz’ to ‘Alice in Wonderland,’” says Montanari. “Staff members from the Student Recreation and Wellness Center are going to be there with a ‘Let’s Get Physical’ theme, and they’re promising to be dressed like Richard Simmons. It’s going to be quite a sight to see!”

For more information, contact Denise Montanari at ext. 2374.

To learn more about the University Park Alliance, with its mission to revitalize the diverse 50-block neighborhood immediately surrounding The University of Akron, through engaging the community and catalyzing real estate and business investment, visit the UPA website.

Media contact: Sarah Lane, 330-972-7429 or slane@uakron.edu.