
Aaron, with his father Greg, collecting donations at the Ramblewood Plaza Publix in Coral Springs. {Faran Fagen}
Aaron Underweiser of Coconut Creek spent the last week in the lobbies of four Publix stores in Coral Springs and Parkland, raising money for Special Olympics Florida’s Torch Icon Campaign.
Aaron, 30, is on the autism spectrum and is a 15-year Special Olympics Florida athlete.
“It felt great to run the donation table at the stores,” Underweiser said. “I enjoyed talking to customers and supporters.”
The annual Torch Icon Campaign at Publix is an important initiative that raises awareness and funds to provide essential resources for Special Olympics Florida athletes – such as training, equipment, uniforms, competition opportunities, and travel expenses. Special Olympics Florida also provides crucial health screenings for athletes – more than 10,000 a year – and offers life-changing leadership programs.
In 2024, Publix customers and associates contributed more than $3.4 million to ensure athletes could train and compete at no charge to them or their families. The 2025 campaign runs January 10-19 and continues through this weekend.
Athletes are encouraged to visit their local Publix stores three times during the campaign. Underweiser, who works at Publix at Coral Landings in Coral Springs, was so inspired to help that he volunteered to gather donations at four different Publix locations.
At the Publix at Ramblewood Square in Coral Springs, he raised $136 in two hours. One generous customer donated $100. Underweiser simply asks for donations and tells customers what the money is for.
“It feels great helping out the campaign,” said Underweiser, who has tried almost every sport but currently plays soccer and basketball. “I enjoy meeting people and helping Special Olympics.”
His volunteering runs in the family. Both Greg and Susan, his parents, have been volunteer coaches with Special Olympics Florida for the past two decades. Aaron’s 33-year-old sister, Amy. also participates as a unified partner in basketball.
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