From staff reports
Clarion University Eagle Ambassadors will hold a clothing drive event with a twist.
The Nearly Naked Mile will begin at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 3, at Memorial Stadium in Clarion. Participants run or walk a mile in minimal clothing on a November day to foster understanding of those who cannot afford proper cold weather attire.
Runners/walkers are encouraged to dress in summer clothing – shorts, camisoles, tank tops, etc.
Kirsten Davis, the Eagle Ambassadors president, said the idea developed after she and other group members attended a conference last summer.
“We had never heard of anything like that on the Clarion campus, and we thought it would be a good, unique event,” she said. “Until we started planning, we didn’t realize how big the need is. It’s something that’s not necessarily talked about, and we hope to bring it to light,” Davis said.
She said she is hoping for weather that’s chilly enough to raise awareness.
Registration, beginning at 9 a.m., is the donation of two pieces of new or lightly used winter clothing or $10 cash. Suggested clothing items include coats, hoodies, long-sleeved shirts, pants and shoes suitable for children ages 11-18.
At 10 a.m., a Clarion nutrition and fitness student will lead yoga as a group warm-up.
Information about donations or acceptable attire is available by sending an email to eambassadors@clarion.edu.
The drive will benefit the Pay It Forward Clothing Closet at Oil City Middle School and High School, supporting children who need proper winter attire.
Organizers hope to make it an annual event and divide donations between the Oil City and Clarion areas.
