Camp Wildcat will hold a 5k race on the UA campus this Saturday to raise money to fund their camping trips with underprivileged youth.

Thomas Daehler, a junior finance major and one of the 5k directors said he hopes to have around 100 participants. Though it is competitive, with prizes for those who finish first, non-runners shouldn’t feel like they shouldn’t come, Daehler said. More relaxed participants are welcome to walk the course around the UA Mall as well.

The money raised will go toward funding camping trips that are free for elementary and middle school students. Their goal is to inspire and encourage children to pursue a college education.

“A lot of kids don’t even realize that they can go to college,” said Daehler. “Sometimes they think it’s out of reach and they don’t even consider it. This gives them the opportunity to actually try to get good grades and to reap the rewards later in life.”

Camp Wildcat chooses one school or group to work with for each event they host. The selection process is need based and they aim to provide children with opportunities they otherwise wouldn’t have.

According to Daehler, children have a variety of activities to participate in during the camping trips, everything from arts and crafts to science and engineering. They encourage children to think about pursuing activities that interest them beyond camp.

“Kids are hilarious,” Daehler said about what he’s learned. “And kids are kids. Regardless of where they’re from or if they’re rich or poor.”

Registration for the race begins at 6:30 a.m. on the UA Mall and is $15 for UA students and $25 for non-UA students.