To celebrate a Wisconsin staple and raise money for the American Cancer Society, Colleges Against Cancer held their first annual Cheese Curd Crawl Sunday.

Co-president Arika Feils came up with the idea for a Cheese Curd Crawl after seeing another student organization host a similar event last spring.

CAC’s largest undertaking is planning Relay for Life in Madison, but they also frequently volunteer, fundraise and raise awareness for the American Cancer Society. This event was the first of its type for CAC to host.

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The crawl kicked off at Buckingham’s Bar & Grill where participants purchased a wristband to raise money for the American Cancer Society. From 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., wristband holders bar-hopped to 11 participating bars and restaurants to receive exclusive deals on drinks, and of course, cheese curds.

Senior Nicole Adrian is not a member of CAC but came to Buckingham’s with friends to support the cause.

“I think cancer impacts us all in one way, shape or form,” Adrian said. “Going out, being social with my friends while supporting a great cause is a good way to spend my Sunday.”

CAC provided two maps with optional routes around Madison to complete every stop. Participating locations spanned from Sconnie bar on Regent Street to Red Rock Saloon on West Johnson and State Street Brats.

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Sofia Enea, co-president of CAC was hopeful for a good turnout. And as any Wisconsin resident would be, she was most excited to indulge in cheese curds all day long.

“This year we wanted to do something a little different, this is a year of firsts,” Enea said.

The Cheese Curd Crawl is not the only “first” this year. Enea said one in two men are diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime — a staggering statistic many may not know. The presidents of CAC wanted to focus on that statistic this year and create a new campaign.

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CAC has developed Grow Big Red as their November fundraising campaign to raise awareness for men’s health, which will be kicking off in just a few days.

Enea said CAC serves as a support group for the people involved.

“Everyone has been touched by cancer here,” Enea said. “We are also here to educate and fundraise.”