MU to include sensory area on Homecoming parade route

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The University of Missouri Homecoming parade is set to take place at 9 a.m. Saturday morning in downtown Columbia.  

The parade has been a long standing tradition that brings in alumni and fans to the heart of Columbia. But for some, the noise can be too much for them to enjoy.  

As a freshman, Abigail Klapatauskas knew she wanted to be on the homecoming committee.  

This year when she joined the committee as a sophomore, she wanted to make part of the parade route a sensory area. 

A stretch of Fifth Street -- from Broadway Street to Cherry Street -- will serve as that section.

This year, Klapatauskas found a way to make sure everyone gets to enjoy the parade…even those who need a sensory safe environment.

My goal is that families sitting on the stretch can enjoy the parade like they've never been able to enjoy it before,” Klapatauskas said.

The MU community was quickly on board.

“They were so encouraging and heartwarming,” Klapatauskas said. “They're immediately like, ‘Absolutely how can we make that work? Who do we need to talk to you?’” 

Klapatauskas’ Motivation for this area of the parade route is personal. Her youngest sister, Madilyn – who lives in Iowa --  has Down Syndrom.

Often times, their mom would miss events with the family so she could stay at home with Madilyn.

“She wants to see all the people she just doesn't want to be startled by their loud noises and a lot of people have that same personality trait,” Klapatauskas said.

As the parade nears the area, volunteers will hold signs to remind parade participates they are nearing the sensory awareness area.

We're hoping to generally decrease the amount of sirens and flashing lights as well,” Klapatauskas said. “Just so they can be more visually relaxed as well.”