Inspire future generations

Oak Hammock Creates Butterfly Rainforest Fund at UF

Categories: Moments that Move Us

By Anne Riker Garlington

Butterfly photo provided by ©Florida Museum/Jeff Gage.
Butterfly photo provided by ©Florida Museum/Jeff Gage.

At Oak Hammock at the University of Florida, we take pride in supporting the Gainesville community and advancing causes that sustain and celebrate our environment.

Oak Hammock residents have long enjoyed visiting and supporting the Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History. A truly unique oasis located on the UF campus, the Butterfly Rainforest is a delight for all ages. As Oak Hammock resident Linda Kallman said, “The Butterfly Rainforest is one of my favorite places to take my grandchildren,” she said. “They are fascinated by Mother Nature and learning how many varieties of butterflies can exist. It is particularly exciting when the butterflies land on them!”

Dan Hayman, another Oak Hammock resident and donor to the Florida Museum of Natural History, said, “Walking amongst the exotic jungle foliage in the Butterfly Rainforest is a Zen experience and provides one with a sense of tranquility.”

Butterfly photo provided by ©Florida Museum/Jeff Gage.
Butterfly photo provided by ©Florida Museum/Jeff Gage.

The Oak Hammock Butterfly Rainforest Fund was established as a tribute to the UF Florida Museum of Natural History—and as a reflection of our own spirit of growth and renewal. Just as the butterfly symbolizes transformation, Oak Hammock continues to evolve, creating new opportunities for residents to thrive.

Our newest apartment building, The Canopy, represents the first phase of an exciting reimagining of our future. Centered on resident well-being, The Canopy embodies our commitment to continual investment, innovation and connection.

Like the butterfly’s journey from caterpillar to flight, this next chapter is a shared metamorphosis. Over the coming years, residents will form new friendships, embrace change and enjoy a vibrant, carefree lifestyle that celebrates both community and individuality.

Photo provided by ©Florida Museum/Kristen Grace.
Photo provided by ©Florida Museum/Kristen Grace.

To honor the first 56 residents who made residential reservations at The Canopy, Oak Hammock has made an inaugural gift of $5,600—$100 for each new household—to launch the Butterfly Rainforest Fund. This donation expresses our gratitude for those who believe in our vision and the lasting impact we can make together.

We invite others to contribute to this meaningful fund—ensuring that butterflies, and the beauty of the natural world they represent, continue to inspire generations to come.

To make a gift to the Oak Hammock Butterfly Rainforest fund, use the link here.