We’ve established this directory to help you find kindred spirits and opportunities to explore new interests. While we are happy to provide this listing as a service to our faculty and staff, the information provided does not indicate UFHR’s endorsement of any of the organizations listed. You are encouraged to do your research and explore. If you find any issues with an organization on this list that we should be aware of, please email us at hrcommunications@hr.ufl.edu.
Help us make this directory better by emailing us at hrcommunications@hr.ufl.edu to let us know of other area nonprofit organizations and communities that provide opportunities for UF faculty and staff to get connected. We will continue to seek out additional opportunities as well so we may grow this list into as complete a directory as possible.
Anthropology at UF
Open to everyone and anyone interested in and/or involved in anthropology at the University of Florida, including interested students, current students, undergrads, grads, Ph.D. students, professors and alumni. This group is affiliated with the University of Florida Department of Anthropology. Please contact Riley Ravary with any inquiries.
Association for Academic Women at the University of Florida
Serves professional women with events including a variety of topics from negotiating salary increases and promotion to retirement talks across the age spectrum and career stages. Also facilitates opportunities for women across campus to network while providing mentorship and collaboration with other professional groups across the diverse UF ecosystem.
Coalition of Disabled Gators and Allies
UF CDGA promotes an inclusive environment. We welcome anyone in the UF community who self-identifies as having a disability or disabled or is an ally or accomplice. Membership is open to staff and faculty, employed at least in part-time positions. Additionally, post-doctoral researchers/fellows and graduate students are eligible for membership. UF retirees may be affiliate members. For now, CDGA is an online community where we can network and support each other, but we hope to have in-person offerings in the future. To join the CDGA, please complete this form which will only be used to verify your eligibility. If you have questions, email us at CDGA.UFL@gmail.com, or call Dr. Katie Stofer at 352-273-3690.
Experience UF is an academic year-long program tailored for new faculty and professionals, especially those who have recently relocated here. Each month, there will be a sponsored social networking event on campus or within the Gainesville community. While the program is designed for newer employees, all faculty and professional staff are welcome to attend events of interest. To learn more email hrcommunications@hr.ufl.edu.
FPRA Gainesville
Founded in 1938, the Florida Public Relations Association is the nation’s oldest association of public relations professionals. Today, more than 1,400 FPRA members unite in the common cause of enhancing and promoting the public relations profession. FPRA provides a variety of services, benefits and opportunities.
Gainesville Hackerspace
Provides a physical space where hackers, engineers, scientists, artists and other creative types can gather to share ideas, equipment, opinions and even food. Members are likely to show up to work on personal projects, consult with other members and learn new things. Share all types of knowledge in a friendly and collaborative environment.
Gainesville Tech
A range of technology professionals from around the Gainesville area discuss common topics that arise in technology projects. Developers, managers, analysts and project leads are all examples of the kind of people who might be interested in these meetings, but anyone is free to join in.
Gainesville UX Design
UX professionals, UI designers, web developers and anyone who is interested in the world of user experience meet to discuss trends, tools, techniques and experiences.
Gainesville WordPress Meetup Group
A group of WordPress enthusiasts in and around Gainesville area who love working with WordPress in a variety of different ways. Learn about WordPress and all it has to offer.
Gator Business Administrator Services
Professional support, programs and events designed to help business administrators be more effective in their jobs in the areas of finance, research administration, reporting and human resources.
Mentoring Affinity Group
The Mentoring Affinity Group at UF is open for anyone who is working with mentoring programs or interested in learning more about mentoring — whether it be faculty mentoring, grad or undergrad mentoring, or peer mentoring. The group meets 2-3 times per semester. To become a member, join the Mentoring Affinity Group listserv for updates and events.
Support Group for Adults on the Spectrum
Join us ONLINE via Zoom for our monthly support group where we will talk about how to manage daily life. Parents are also welcome to join in. Meetings are held on the first Friday of each month at 5PM. Email Robin Byrd for details.
UF Academic and Professional Assembly
An official UF organization that provides programs and helps coordinate service and networking opportunities tailored to the special interests and needs of UF’s professional employees.
UF Asian Faculty and Staff Association
Through our community, we strive for a betterment of our Asian and Pacific Islander faculty and staff members through personal and professional development activities. The Asian Faculty and Staff Association (AFSA) aims to promote the culture and environment of inclusivity where its members can connect, share resources and network. The group will also serve as a source of connections for resources, knowledge and professional advancement for its members. Interested in joining or collaborating with the AFSA? Contact Anchalee Phataralaoha at anchalee@ufl.edu or Rachel DiSesa at rdisesa@ufl.edu. For news and updates on upcoming programming, fill out the membership sign-up form at https://forms.gle/oE9HaiDBbEgiWTdC9.
UF Association of Black Faculty and Staff
Promotes an environment that fosters cultural sensitivity and enrichment through programming, networking and guiding Black students, faculty, and staff members. Actively works to improve the quality of the Black experience at University of Florida by cultivating a campus climate that is inviting, unified, encouraging, and that promotes upward mobility and success.
UF Café Latino
A coalition of faculty and extension professionals serving the needs of the Hispanic/Latino population in Florida. This group strives to advance the mission of Florida’s land-grant universities by ensuring equity, inclusion and full participation of Latino/Hispanic youth, families and communities in the benefits and leadership of Cooperative Extension.
UF Clinical and Translational Science Diversity and Cultural Competence Council’s Weekly Diversity Discussions
Join a group of professionals that are passionate about the diversification and cultural competence in the research professional community. The group meets every Thursday at 10 a.m. by Zoom. The goal of the group is to have a safe place to be vulnerable, learn, and grow in this amazing diverse world we live in. Topics include current events, workplace skills, and self-realization skills. To join the group and suggest a topic of discussion, please reach out to Tiffany Danielle Pineda, tiffany.danielle@UFL.EDU.
UF Communicators Network
A group of communication professionals leading the advancement of UF’s image and reputation. Includes designers information officers, artists, specialists and public relations strategists.
UF Latinx Staff and Faculty Association
Strives to provide a welcoming and affirming space to recruit, represent, and retain Latinx staff and faculty at the University of Florida. By advocating for social and professional development opportunities for Latinx staff and faculty and supporting equitable policies for Latinx faculty, staff, and students; this group seeks to increase Latinx visibility at the University of Florida and promote an inclusive campus environment. Fill out the membership sign-up form to be added to the email list and get news and updates about upcoming event.
UF Leadership Network
A forum for faculty and professional leaders who have completed UF’s leadership development programs. Supports members in continued exploration of leadership issues while providing opportunities for networking and collaboration.
UF Postdoctoral Association
The UF Postdoctoral Association serves all postdoctoral scholars at the University of Florida by fostering career and social connections through community-building and by increasing postdoc visibility on campus. Interested members may complete the registration form.
UF Presidential LBGTQ+ Advisory Committee
Serves as a vehicle for a systematic and periodic assessment of the quality of life of LGBTQ+ individuals at the university and to make recommendations regarding the need for educational programming, establishment of specific services and programs, and other similar matters.
UF Queer Nation
Queer Nation fosters a welcoming and affirming workplace by promoting visibility and community building for UF LGBTQ+ faculty and staff and partners with the LGBTQ+ Presidential Advisory Committee in its efforts. To join Queer Nation, please fill out our membership form.
University of Florida Women in Medicine and Science
A group of women faculty from the University of Florida College of Medicine created to support, empower and contribute toward the professional and leadership development of women faculty promoting a more optimal institutional environment for all.
Backyard Chickens of Gainesville, Florida
A group for people raising chickens in their backyards in and around Gainesville. For mutual sharing of information, enthusiasm and experiences of chicken raising.
Gainesville Area Bee Club
For anyone interested in beekeeping. Meetings are held the first Thursday of each month at 7:00pm in the University of Florida Entomology Building, Room 1031.
Pet Owners Gainesville, Florida
Where pet owners share the cuteness and discuss all things pet related.
Actors’ Warehouse
A community theatre founded in 2011 born out of a need to increase theatrical diversity in casting and programming for the Gainesville community.
Book Lovers Group of Gainesville
For any adult who loves to read and desires one day out of the month to discuss great books with other book lovers. Members of all ages (18+), all professions and all genders. Meetups include book discussions, social and literary events, volunteer opportunities, and more.
Concert Goers UF
For Gainesville people interested in concerts and music festivals. Share details on different concerts, sell and buy tickets, and find out which of your fellow colleagues are attending concerts.
Gainesville Area Music Scene
Follow live musical events in the North Florida Region.
Gainesville Art Walk
The last Friday of every month, Gainesville’s art venues open their doors to everyone. Appropriate for all ages. Usually refreshments at each venue.
Gainesville Artisans’ Guild
Established in 1970 to create a network and market for area artists. The Artisans’ Guild Gallery in Downtown Gainesville is among the oldest artist-owned and operated cooperatives in the country. Members staff the gallery, participate in committee work and are encouraged to have an active voice.
Gainesville Brunch + Books
A group aimed at women who are new in town or looking to make new friends through a mutual love of yummy breakfast foods and good books. Part book club, part brunch. Mini-meet ups for non-brunch related things are also encouraged.
Gainesville Digital Photography
Meet other local digital photographers to talk about anything related to photography. Meets monthly on a theme and to discuss photo shooting opportunities for the month. Share themed photos from the last month and participate in a short class/discussion about a photographic technique or process.
Gainesville EDM Community
Promotes Electronic Dance Music in Gainesville by sharing relevant events, songs, news links etc.
Gainesville Improv Guild
An improvisational theatre troupe based in Gainesville, formerly called Much Ado About Doris Improv, is a group of talented actors that have ranged in age from 20 to 84. It was inspired by Norma Homan and founded by Sidney Homan in January 2013.
Gainesville Modern Quilters
Gainesville Modern Quilters is a chapter of the International Modern Quilt Guild and members meet monthly to learn about modern quilting, work on group projects and share their work. Those interested in joining can email gainesvillemodernquilters@gmail.com for more information.
Gainesville Photography Club
Open to anyone having an interest in the art and science of photography and who desires to share their ideas and expertise with like-minded individuals.
Shut Up & Write! Gainesville
An international organization of thousands of writers in a worldwide community, but most importantly, writers who write together in a local cafe.
University of Florida Women’s Chorale
For all members, current or past, of the Women’s Chorale as well as for fans, friends and family. Perform music from a broad spectrum of works from light classical to popular styles and participate in several performances throughout the academic year.
Writer’s Group Gainesville
This group is for anyone who writes fiction — novels, short stories, whatever. Meets once a month for a few hours to share what everyone is working on, get feedback and motivate one another to keep on going.
Catholic Gators
Bringing Christ to the campus community and the community to Christ.
Christian Study Center
Brings together students, faculty, and community members to explore the intellectual and cultural resources of the Christian tradition.
Islam on Campus
Devoted to raising awareness about Islam to non-Muslims and Muslims alike while strengthening and uniting the Muslim community at the University of Florida.
Krishna House
A permanent center adjacent to campus devoted to practicing and teaching Krishna consciousness.
UF Chapel House
A vibrant Episcopal Christian ministry among the students, faculty and staff in the University of Florida and Santa Fe College communities.
UF Christian Faculty Fellowship
A ministry of Cru, the University of Florida Christian Faculty Fellowship (UFCFF) exists under the umbrella of Faculty Commons.
UF Hillel
Offers Jewish Gators a diverse range of opportunities to engage in vibrant Jewish life.
Alachua County Permaculture Guild
Sponsored by The Permaculture Guild for Permaculture Activists and related professionals in Alachua County.
Gainesville Mushroom Hunters
This group is for edible and medicinal mushroom hunting, identification, and consuming.
Grow Gainesville
Grow Gainesville exists to encourage the communal aspects of homesteading skills that promote self-sufficiency and sustainability, while making that growing part a little easier, too. Our aim as a network is to help connect gardeners and homesteaders online and face to face; to provide the supplies, resources and access to knowledge needed to grow food in the city and nearby areas.
Grow Hub
A non-profit plant nursery supporting the lives of adults living with disabilities. Our missions is to cultivate, empower and assist disabled adults for sustainable living through education, training and job opportunities.
Working Food
Working Food is a non-profit organization that works to cultivate and sustain a resilient local food community in North Central Florida through collaboration, economic opportunity, education, and seed stewardship.
Gainesville Foosball League
A weekly handicap tournament for all levels and genders. Newbies and avid players welcome.
Gainesville Gaming
Brings the Gainesville tabletop, board, card and role-playing gaming community together. Find Dungeons and Dragons Groups, play popular and under-played magic formats, and other games
The Adventure Club of Gainesville
A community of professionals who are constantly looking for new and exciting social activities and things to do. Events are coordinated by an experienced team of event leaders and are designed to accommodate a wide range of interests.
Florida Paddling Trails Association
The steward of Florida’s paddling trails, the FPTA’s mission is to develop paddling trails, protect the environment along the trails and be a resource and voice for paddlers.
Florida Springs Institute
Join the Howard T. Odum Florida Springs Institute to explore the state’s unique springs. Learn about springs ecosystems from local experts and discover the beauty of Florida’s 1,000+ springs and the Floridan aquifer.
Gainesville Offshore Fishing Club
A non-profit organization with a current membership of more than 100 families who have a common interest in both inshore and offshore saltwater angling in North Central Florida.
Let’s Ride Gainesville
A social riding group with no dues, meetings or politics. The common thread is a love to ride motorcycles, find new roads and adventures together.
Levy County Horseback Riding
Whether you own a horse or not, experienced or not, any skill level is welcome. May organize a trail ride, a horse facility tour, an equestrian event or something else fun even non-horse related. Men and women, couples and singles, all welcome.
Gainesville Moms
A place for moms living in and around Gainesville to give advice, share local deals and plan meet-ups.
Gainesville Moms and Tots Playgroup
A community in Gainesville for moms, dads and caregivers of 0-5-year olds to have playdates and make friends.
Gainesville Twins Club
For parents of multiples in Gainesville and other surrounding areas. Members help one another with advice, the selling of double items on a resale page and to develop friendships among parents and children! Play groups in the following categories: 0-1yr old, 1-2 yr. old, 2-3-year-old, 4 -6-year-old.
Group for University of Florida Parents and Families
For current, prospective and former parents and families of University of Florida students; a place to ask questions, give advice and discuss the University of Florida college experience.
Adult Softball
For ages 18 years and older. Get your team together and play ball with (must have full team- no single registrations).
Florida Track Club
Sponsors events such as fun runs, social get-togethers and races throughout the year. Membership is open to runners of all ages and abilities. For more information, email thefloridatrackclub@gmail.com.
Gainesville Adult Coed Social Kickball
Meet new people while reviving your inner desire to have fun.
Gainesville Area Rowing
Offers an adult rowing program called GAR Masters for adults 22+ who row competitively and recreationally. Adults between 18-22 years of age are considered college rowers but are welcome to row with the GAR Masters team. Many people new to this sport do not realize that the word “master” refers only to the age of rower and is not an indication of one’s rowing ability.
Gainesville Cycling Club
A loosely organized group formed for the purpose of riding bikes formed in 1980 with about 25 local riders. The club was incorporated in 1991. Membership has grown to more than 800 members. Features a diverse group of cyclists ranging from commuters, sightseeing groups, tandem riders, all the way to amateur bike racers.
Gainesville Dance
Information about dancing in the Gainesville, Ocala and North Central Florida area.
Gainesville Moms Walking Club
This is a low-pressure, light-impact walking club.
Gainesville Racquetball Meetup
This is a group for anyone who loves the game of Racquetball. The goal is to have a way for all the area racquetball players to reach out to each other and find someone to play with. All skill levels welcome. Men and women welcome.
Gainesville Regional Soccer League
More than 600 participating players, the league hosts 24 co-rec teams and eight women’s teams in three seasons throughout the calendar year.
Gainesville Takedown Club
A community of support for wrestling.
Gainesville Triathlon Club
G3 is the only public USAT club in Gainesville, with the mission of promoting the sport of triathlon through learning, training and racing together in a positive social environment. For more information, contact Eric Castaldo, President.
Gainesville Volleyball
Gainesville Volleyball is an organization dedicated to providing outdoor volleyball opportunities in Gainesville. They host fun and competitive sand and grass tournaments and adult leagues. All ages are welcome.
Play Tennis Gainesville with USTA Florida
A program custom-designed for adult beginners to learn the game of tennis in a fun, fast-paced, no-pressure environment. Pros work with players on shot basics and build on the fundamentals each week to have players rallying and cheering each other on. Mentors teach players court etiquette, scoring, calling lines and more so you’ll know the ins and outs of the game.
Team Florida Track Club
Focuses entirely on coaching runners.
UF-UF Health Employee Fitness Classes
Free classes, including Zumba, Yoga, HITT and more are offered weekly to UF and UF Health employees.
UF Ultimate Frisbee
A community of UF Students and Gainesville residents for games of pick up ultimate frisbee at Flavet Field
University of Florida Bootcamp
A group fitness class designed to offer high intensity training, total body conditioning, and speed and agility training in a non-traditional format. Suitable for all levels of fitness. Sunday through Friday at 5:30PM on Maguire Field.
Alachua County Council of PTA’s
The Alachua County Council of PTAs (ACCPTAs) serves as a branch of Florida PTA, supporting and providing the county voice for our local PTA school units. To accomplish this, we:
Gainesville Rotary Club
Meets at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention every Tuesday at noon. Connect with a diverse group of professionals who share a drive to join in fellowship, to improve our communities and to make a difference. Through regular meetings and events, the group enjoys friendships, identifies community needs and develops creative solutions to meet those needs.
GFWC Gainesville Woman’s Club
The Gainesville Woman’s Club is a 501©3 non-profit organization affiliated with the Florida Federation of Women’s Clubs and the parent organization, the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. Members are brought together through a common interest to address all aspects for improving our community through service and charitable commitments. For more information, call (352) 376-3901 or email gwcwomansclub@att.net.
Junior League of Gainesville
The Junior League of Gainesville, Florida, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. For more information, call (352) 376-3805 or email office@gainesvillejrleague.org.
Keep Alachua County Beautiful
Keep America Beautiful follows a practical approach that unites citizens, businesses and the government to find solutions that advance our core issues of preventing litter, reducing waste, and beautifying communities.
Gainesville Meditation
Organized to promote meditation in Gainesville and run by members of the non-faith-based Free Community Meditation Group that meets every Saturday morning at 9am at the Civic Media Center in downtown Gainesville.
Gainesville Yoga
Find yoga events and activities happening throughout the Gainesville area.
UF Mindfulness
A trans-disciplinary partnership among faculty, staff and students throughout UF to co-create a mindfulness campus culture.
