(SAVANNAH, Ga.) CURE Childhood Cancer, the only organization dedicated to supporting local children with cancer and funding pediatric oncology research, invited the community to celebrate hope and resilience at the 11th annual Catie’s Gathering in Savannah Presented by Coastal Electric. This heartwarming event, held in memory of Catie Wilkins, a young girl who bravely fought cancer, took place at Kehoe Iron Works at Trustees’ Garden.
Guests enjoyed an elegant cocktail reception and dinner catered by Magnolia Grill Catering, and live music from Junkyard Angel. The evening also featured silent and live auctions, inspiring stories, and meaningful connections.
Since its inception, Catie’s Gathering has grown from one to five event locations in South Georgia, and events have raised nearly $4 million, directly impacting the lives of children with cancer. Funds support CURE’s research initiatives, like the Precision Medicine program, which develops individualized treatments based on each child’s unique genetic makeup. Additionally, funds provide critical support to families facing unimaginable challenges.
“Catie’s Gathering is a powerful testament to the love and compassion of our community, united in the fight against childhood cancer,” says Mandy Garola, Vice President of CURE Childhood Cancer in South Georgia. “The funds raised at this event directly impact the lives of children battling this disease, giving them the chance for a brighter future. We are incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests who make this event possible.”
CURE Childhood Cancer is working for a cure by funding research exclusively for childhood cancer and supporting families affected by the disease. Childhood cancers differ from adult cancers in how they grow and spread, how they are treated, and how they respond to treatment. More than 17,000 children in the United States are diagnosed with cancer every year, and incidence rates are increasing yearly. Despite cancer being the leading cause of death by disease in children, only six cancer drugs have been developed and approved specifically for children in the last 25 years.
ABOUT CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER Founded in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE has dedicated more than $38MM to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children. CURE is headquartered in Atlanta and has an active staff operating throughout the greater Savannah area. It is the only organization funding pediatric cancer research and providing this level of financial and emotional support to local children and families across Georgia and parts of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.curechildhoodcancer.org.
(GEORGIA) Cecilia Russo Marketing, an award-winning full-service marketing and public relations firm, proudly announces the three winning recipients of the firm’s 15th Anniversary Entrepreneurship Grants in celebration of National Entrepreneurship Month. New business owners, startup companies, and budding entrepreneurs applied for a $5,000 grant, which pays homage to the first payment received by Cecilia Russo Marketing from its first client.
“We were overwhelmed by the state-wide response to our grant program, receiving over 630 applications from passionate entrepreneurs from as far north as Calhoun, Georgia to as far south as Valdosta, Ga. and everywhere in between,” said Russo Turner. “It was a really tough decision.”
The deserving recipients of the Cecilia Russo Marketing 15th Anniversary Entrepreneurship Grants are:
Carmella Alexander – C.A Publishing C.A Publishing LLC is an innovative publishing company in Lawrenceville, Ga. that aims to provide inclusion for the special needs community. Its concentration is on creating books that cater to the unique needs and interests of children with disabilities, focusing on developing story dolls adapted for play by those with limited mobility. Additionally, they offer a range of complementary products, including apparel and souvenirs, all designed to promote inclusivity and foster a sense of belonging among individuals with special needs.
The grant award monies will be used to fund the production of story plush dolls, some of which will be adapted with a switch device to allow children with limited mobility the ability to bring their favorite inclusive stories to life and participate actively in imaginative play.
Maggie Lilly – Party of Hive Party of Hive is a granola business owned and operated by Savannah, Ga. native Maggie Lilly. The company uses local honey and gluten-free oats, along with other high-quality ingredients, to make the tastiest granola on the market. Party of Hive has three different flavors of granola that sell retail on the company’s website and wholesale in several shops in Savannah and nine other shops in Ga. and two in North Carolina. Since launching as a cottage food granola business, the company has grown into a commercial business with a successful website and several wholesale accounts. The grant funding will empower Party of Hive to significantly expand its outreach efforts.
Rickey Brown III – RBIII Academy RBIII Academy is a music education studio in Marietta, Ga. that provides private one-on-one sessions to students of all ages and levels. The academy was founded by a Howard University graduate who was looking for a way to continue pursuing his passion for music during the COVID-19 pandemic. RBIII Academy has quickly grown into a successful business, winning the Best Music School of Marietta 2022 award.
The academy will use the grant to invest in musical instruments and technology, ensuring that their students have access to the best resources available. They also plan to use the grant to build an inventory of slightly used high-quality instruments to offer subsidized pricing for lower-income students. The academy believes that music lessons have a profound impact on students’ lives, both intellectually and emotionally. They are committed to providing exceptional music education to students of all backgrounds, regardless of their financial situation.
The Cecilia Russo Marketing Entrepreneurship Grants welcomed applications from small businesses operating within the state of Georgia. Applicants were asked to submit a written pitch of no more than 1,000 words explaining their business and how it would benefit from a $5,000 grant and continue to propel the economic impact in our state. Not only did the selection process consider various aspects of the applicant’s business plans, but also the need for financial support and the impact the grant would have on the growth of their business. Russo Turner aims to serve as a mentor for not only the three winners but also for the 15 finalists.
In 2008, Owner and President Cecilia Russo Turner left a stable and secure job to take on the publicity and event planning for Tour de Georgia, a U.S. professional road cycling stage race across Ga. The event took a couple of months and she was paid $5,000 for the successful completion of the project. Russo Turner went on to build a successful company over the following 15 years. With a wealth of experience in strategic communications, marketing, fundraising, and public relations, she has successfully guided executives in both large and small private enterprises as well as nonprofit sectors. Having worked and collaborated with countless businesses and philanthropic organizations in the southeast regional areas, she brings a unique expertise to the table.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, known for his leadership as a champion of small business, congratulated Russo Turner on the announcement of the grants. Governor Kemp established the Georgians First Commission to review state regulations, policies and procedures to streamline government, remove inefficiencies and secure Georgia’s place as the top state for small business in the country.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Georgia’s economy, supporting both individuals and employees while providing vital services and character to communities across our state,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “As the No. 1 state for business, Georgia has the tools for entrepreneurs to succeed.”
Russo Turner said, “Through diligent efforts, fervent prayers and the incredible support of our clients and the thriving Savannah community, I have witnessed the remarkable growth of my business far beyond my most ambitious expectations. It brings me great joy to mark this milestone by extending a helping hand to a business facing the same circumstances I once navigated during my inception, allowing the cycle of support and success to perpetuate.”
The Cecilia Russo Marketing 15th Anniversary Entrepreneurship Grants program is just one of the ways that Cecilia Russo Marketing is committed to supporting small businesses.
For more information about Cecilia Russo Marketing and its services, please visit www.crussomarketing.com.
ABOUT CECILIA RUSSO MARKETING, LLC Based in Savannah, Ga., Cecilia Russo Marketing is an award-winning boutique agency delivering trusted and successful results since its founding in 2008. Owner and President Cecilia Russo Turner is a native of Savannah and uniquely understands the local and regional trends of brand-building strategies and reputation management while leveraging traditional and digital platforms to engage with key publics and consistently exceed client expectations. For more information, visit www.crussomarketing.com.
(SAVANNAH, Ga.) CURE Childhood Cancer, the only organization providing financial and emotional support to local children and families while raising funds to further critical research specifically for pediatric oncology, raised more than $93,000 at its annual Homecoming event at Forest City Gun Club, 9203 Ferguson Ave.
The event was a football-themed celebration with delicious tailgate-inspired food, drinks and plenty of exciting college football to cheer for on multiple screens.
“It was so wonderful for our community to come together and support our mission to find a cure for childhood cancer,” said CURE Vice President, South Georgia Mandy Garola. “We are grateful for the support of our sponsors and donors, and completely blown away by how much was raised to support our research efforts and patient and family services.”
At halftime, guests watched a video sharing the story of Myles, a young Savannah teen’s battle with a brain tumor. The atmosphere in the room shifted as the crowd took in the story and the enormity of the battle this young man was fighting. Guests learned how Myles’s journey has been made a bit smoother through his enrollment in Precision Medicine, funded by CURE. Precision Medicine provided genetic testing of his tumor that revealed a targetable mutation that has impacted his treatment.
“It was lovely to have Myles and his family in attendance as their story was shared,” said Jenny Wilkins, CURE Development Director of Events, South Georgia. “The event raised more than $93,000 and was a great night that introduced CURE Childhood Cancer to a lot of new people. We are already looking forward to next year’s event.”
About CURE Childhood Cancer Founded in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE has dedicated more than $38MM to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children. CURE is headquartered in Atlanta and has a staff of six in Savannah. It is the only organization providing this level of financial and emotional support to local children and families across Georgia and parts of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.curechildhoodcancer.org.
(SAVANNAH, Ga.) Bethesda Academy, a private day school for young men in grades six through twelve in Savannah, Ga., names Clyde Wormley as the new head coach of the school’s varsity basketball team. Wormley will lead the Blue Blazers team which boasts an impressive record of 12 Final Four appearances, eight State Championship games and two state titles.
“I think Clyde Wormley is, first and foremost, a fine individual with strong character and an ability to lead by example. He’s the right kind of man we want at Bethesda Academy, and I know his drive and determination will ensure his success and the team’s success,” said Antwain Turner, Athletic Director and Head Football Coach at Bethesda Academy.
Wormley earned a business degree from The Citadel, where he played college basketball. Since graduating, Wormley has coached for 18 years at the college level as an assistant head coach, two years in that role at The Citadel and 16 years at Savannah State University. He is a Georgia-certified teacher, qualified to teach physical education classes, as well as training in weightlifting and athletic performance. Over the years, Wormley has coached and recruited three All-American athletes, 15 All-Conference athletes, and 15 Academic All-American scholar-athletes.
“As I’ve gotten to know Coach Clyde, I am excited about the future of Bethesda Varsity Basketball and the positive influence he’s going to have on our boys,” said President Mike Hughes. “He truly understands the mission of developing our student-athletes into strong men of character,” he added.
In addition to coaching basketball, Wormley has 15 years of experience planning and implementing coaching camps and community outreach efforts.
ABOUT BETHESDA ACADEMY Bethesda Academy is a private day school for young men in grades six through twelve in Savannah, Ga. Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Bethesda Academy offers small class sizes, individual learning plans, and a student success leadership program. Founded in 1740, Bethesda Academy is the oldest child-care institution in the United States. The 650-acre campus allows Bethesda Academy to offer a variety of athletic teams, a wildlife management and outdoor learning experience with a college preparatory curriculum. Through its “Lead The Way” initiative, students have access to exclusive integrated learning and leadership opportunities. For more information, visit www.bethesdaacademy.org or call 912.644.4376.
CURE Childhood Cancer announces New Members of the Savannah Leadership Council
(SAVANNAH, GA) CURE Childhood Cancer, the only organization providing financial and emotional support to local children and families while raising funds to further critical research specifically for childhood cancer treatments, announces the expansion of the Savannah Leadership Council with the addition of four inspiring individuals.
Kevin Jackson, Christine Rudy, Garrett Shurling and T. Pratt Summers will be joining The Savannah Leadership Council. The council’s main responsibility is to guide and lead CURE’s Savannah staff in expanding brand awareness and engagement within Savannah and the nearby regions.
Kevin Jackson
Garrett ShurlingChristine RudyT. Pratt Summers
EnviroVac CEO, Jackson is a pillar of strength and stability within the Savannah community and his family. He was inspired to join the CURE Leadership Council after a recent event in Effingham County called Catie’s Gathering. As a father of three and a grandfather of seven, Jackson believes it’s important for all children to grow up in a world free of cancer and believes this is a way he can be a part of that.
“Serving on the CURE Leadership Council is a tremendous honor and responsibility,” said Jackson. “I am eager to continue growing awareness and fundraising efforts for CURE, alongside other incredible statewide leaders.”
Rudy is a retired retail executive who held positions with Liz Claiborne, The Children’s Place, Lane Bryant, The Bridal Group, and Destination Maternity. She has served as a board member for Given Memorial Library, Pinehurst, N.C. and Sandhills Community College, Southern Pines, N.C. Rudy received a B.S. in Fashion Merchandising and Management from Immaculata University.
“I am passionate about CURE’s mission of finding a cure for childhood cancer and very interested in helping with fundraising efforts as well as engagement with the patients and families in whatever way the organization deems appropriate,” said Rudy.
Shurling is the President/CEO at Badger Rental Services and has held board positions on the American Rental Associations of Georgia and the Bryan County Development Authority. He and his family started CURE’s Bryan County Catie’s Gathering event in 2017 and have worked to raise over $350,000 through that event. “I’m honored to be asked to join the Leadership Council, as I believe in the mission deeply and the volunteers who make it all happen,” said Shurling.
Summers serves as Vice President of Colonial Terminals, Inc. He holds a BA in Applied Mathematics from Armstrong State University and a BA in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology. Summers serves as the Vice Chairman of the International Liquid Terminal Association, is a past chairman of the United Way of the Coastal Empire and Springfield United Methodist Church, and Ebenezer Elementary PTSO.
“My wife and I have a strong personal connection with Jenny and Tre Wilkins who co-founded Catie’s Fund in memory of their daughter,” Summers said. “We have sponsored tables at the Effingham County CURE event since its inception, and I hope to work with the Council to build CURE’s presence in the professional community.”
These members will act as proud representatives of the organization, promoting events and fundraising initiatives while encouraging others to join the CURE community.
ABOUT CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER Founded in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE has dedicated more than $38MM to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children. CURE is headquartered in Atlanta and has an active staff operating throughout the greater Savannah area. It is the only organization funding pediatric cancer research and providing this level of financial and emotional support to local children and families across Georgia and parts of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.curechildhoodcancer.org.
(SAVANNAH, GA) – CURE Childhood Cancer, the only organization providing financial and emotional support to local children and families while raising funds to further critical research specifically for childhood cancer treatments, announces $5 million in research grants for its 2022-2023 fiscal year. The grants have been awarded to top scientists at leading pediatric cancer research institutions across the nation and represent CURE’s highest disbursement in a single grant cycle. This brings CURE’s total investment in research over the last 17 years to more than $44 million. New for this grant cycle, CURE is awarding two-year grants in both its Early Investigators and Translation to CURE Award groupings.
06.27.2023 – Yana Pikman, MD in her lab at Dana-Farber. Photo by Sam Ogden.
“We are so pleased and proud that CURE is providing an outstanding level of support to very promising research this year,” said Kristin Connor, CEO of CURE Childhood Cancer. “We opted to fund two-year grants this year so researchers can focus on finding cures rather than finding funding. All of the grants aim to make better-tolerated and less-toxic therapies, with a special emphasis on relapsed and refractory disease where current treatments are quite noxious and often not very effective for children.”
CURE’s funding decisions are guided by its Peer Review Committee, a group of practicing oncologists and academic scientists who conduct a rigorous review of more than 50proposals to assess both scientific merit and alignment with CURE’s goals. Of those proposals, CURE selected 11 studies to fund, most of which offer hope of testing more effective treatments for childhood cancers with poor prognosis within 2-3 years.
“Using their collective expertise in research and the clinical care of children with cancer, the committee selected the most innovative investigators and beneficial research projects through a national competition submitted in March 2023,” said William C. Phelps, PhD, leader of CURE’s Peer Review Committee. “Independent, comprehensive, and confidential peer review ensures that CURE’s investments in research are focused on those projects most likely to significantly improve outcomes for children with cancer.”
CURE’s 2023 Pediatric Cancer Research Initiative includes the following studies:
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta/Emory University
Aflac Precision Medicine Program – $1.5 million. Advances in precision medicine have helped scientists design studies targeting specific molecular pathways required for cancer growth. Shared information from multi-institutional programs is giving investigators the needed insights to research new treatments and clinical trials to reach children sooner than before.
Early Investigators (Two-year grants)
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta/Emory University
Shubin Shahab, MD – PBK and let-7 Group 3 medulloblastoma treatment resistance
Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago
Kyle L. MacQuarrie, MD, PhD – Biological consequences of altered chromosomal organization in rhabdomyosarcoma cells
Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital (Cleveland)
Kristen Van Heyst, DO – Tumor microenvironment modulation as an effective therapy for osteosarcoma
Translation to CURE Awards (Two-year grants)
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta/Emory University
Kelly Goldsmith, MD – Second generation gamma delta T-cell therapy for neuroblastoma and osteosarcoma
Dana Farber Cancer Institute/Harvard Medical School
Yana Pikman, MD – Targeting RAS pathway mutations for pediatric acute leukemia therapy
Pietro Genovese, PhD – Empowering pediatric immunotherapies by HSC engineering
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Praveen B. Raju, MD, PhD – Nanotherapeutic targeting of PPM1D inhibitors across the blood-brain barrier for DIPG
Stanford University
Agnieszka Czechowicz, MD, PhD – Development of receptor tyrosine kinase-targeting chimeric antigen receptor T-cells as dual hematopoietic stem cell transplantation conditioning and immunotherapeutic agents for cure of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia
Seattle Children’s Hospital
Elizabeth Lawlor, Md, PhD – Augmenting the efficacy of BET inhibitors for metastatic Ewing sarcoma
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Erwin Van Meir, PhD – Small molecule targeting of epigenetic reader MBD2 for medulloblastoma therapy
University of Minnesota
Beau Webber, PhD – Genetically engineered gamma delta T-cells for treatment of metastatic osteosarcoma
Full funding of three fellowships Dr. Robert Lisac, MD – Sam Robb Fellow. A childhood cancer survivor, Dr. Lisac endured years of complications from a bone marrow transplant. Because of this, his research specializes in bone marrow transplants and survivorship. Dr. Jason Stevenson, MD – Connelly Family Fellow. Inspired to enter the medical profession by his mother, a nurse, his clinical and research interests include leukemia/lymphoma and the factors affecting adverse events and outcomes during treatment.
Toni Chanroo, MD – Dr. Chanroo is a first-year fellow entering her fellowship with a strong interest in the care of pediatric cancer survivors. She developed a passion for this patient population in medical school and residency.
ABOUT CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER Founded in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE has dedicated more than $38MM to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children.CURE is headquartered in Atlanta and has an active staff operating throughout the greater Savannah area. It is the only organization funding pediatric cancer research and providing this level of financial and emotional support to local children and families across Georgia and parts of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.curechildhoodcancer.org.
(SAVANNAH, Ga.) CURE Childhood Cancer, a Georgia-based non-profit dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families, was named the beneficiary of Pearson Farm’s first annual Peach Week in Savannah, Ga.
Eight participating farm-to-table Savannah restaurants used Pearson Farm peaches in special menu items.
Pearson Farm also sold their sweet peaches direct to consumers at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.
Additionally, Pearson Farm passed out peaches to oncology patients and their families at the Dwaine & Cynthia Willett Children’s Hospital of Savannah.
Nestled in bucolic Fort Valley, Ga., approximately 25 miles southwest of Macon, Ga., Pearson Farm offers fresh fruit and nuts, preserves, jellies, flavored pecans, and wholesome baked goods from their on-location bakery, Mary’s Kitchen. They also offer their goods by mail order. Their family business relationships with numerous restaurants are a shining example of their farm-to-table ethos. Pearson Farm has supported the growth of authentic Georgia-grown peaches and pecans, as well as the growth of the five generations of family that pioneered it for more than 135 years. Their core values remain the same today — good soil, hard work, honest dealings, family and faith. Peaches and pecans are grown, harvested, and hand-packed on location.
Founded in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE has dedicated more than $38MM to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children. CURE is the only organization funding pediatric cancer research and providing this level of financial and emotional support to local children and families across Georgia and parts of South Carolina.
ABOUT CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER Founded in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE has dedicated more than $38MM to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children. CURE is headquartered in Atlanta and has an active staff operating throughout the greater Savannah area. It is the only organization funding pediatric cancer research and providing this level of financial and emotional support to local children and families across Georgia and parts of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.curechildhoodcancer.org.
The race is benefiting CURE Childhood Cancer, the only organization providing financial and emotional support to local children and families while raising funds to further critical research specifically for pediatric oncology. This event is an opportunity to unite as a community and make a difference while having fun, exercising, and enjoying the beautiful Savannah scenery.
ABOUT CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER Founded in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE has dedicated more than $38MM to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children.CURE is headquartered in Atlanta and has an active staff operating throughout the greater Savannah area. It is the only organization funding pediatric cancer research and providing this level of financial and emotional support to local children and families across Georgia and parts of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.curechildhoodcancer.org.
(SAVANNAH, Ga.)CURE Childhood Cancer, a Georgia-based non-profit dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families, was named the beneficiary of Pearson Farm’s first annual Peach Week in Savannah, Ga.
Eight participating farm-to-table Savannah restaurants will use Pearson Farm peaches in special menu items from Thursday, June 22, through Sunday, June 25.
Pearson Farm will also be selling their sweet peaches direct to consumers at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 1003 E. Victory Dr., Savannah, on Saturday, June 24, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Additionally, Pearson Farm passed out peaches to oncology patients and their families at the Dwaine & Cynthia Willett Children’s Hospital of Savannah.
“Pearson Farm is proud to announce a partnership with CURE Childhood Cancer to launch Peach Week in Savannah. We are grateful for the chefs in our community who have come together to support this wonderful cause,” said Kyle Barfield, Marketing Manager of Pearson Farm. “We invite all of Savannah to join us in supporting this important cause by visiting one of the many restaurants participating in Peach Week. Together, we can make a difference for those affected by childhood cancer.”
>Nestled in bucolic Fort Valley, Ga., approximately 25 miles southwest of Macon, Ga., Pearson Farm offers fresh fruit and nuts, preserves, jellies, flavored pecans, and wholesome baked goods from their on-location bakery, Mary’s Kitchen. They also offer their goods by mail order. Their family business relationships with numerous restaurants are a shining example of their farm-to-table ethos. Pearson Farm has supported the growth of authentic Georgia-grown peaches and pecans, as well as the growth of the five generations of family that pioneered it for more than 135 years. Their core values remain the same today — good soil, hard work, honest dealings, family and faith. Peaches and pecans are grown, harvested, and hand-packed on location.
“Working with the people at Pearson Farm has been wonderful, and we are so excited for the first annual Peach Week celebration,” said CURE VP of South Georgia Mandy Garola. “Their great idea and the creativity of Savannah’s fabulous chefs will undoubtedly raise needed funds to continue the CURE mission. I can’t wait to try some of the dishes.”
Founded in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE has dedicated more than $38MM to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children.CURE is the only organization funding pediatric cancer research and providing this level of financial and emotional support to local children and families across Georgia and parts of South Carolina.
ABOUT CURE CHILDHOOD CANCER Founded in 1975, CURE Childhood Cancer is dedicated to conquering childhood cancer through funding targeted research while supporting patients and their families. With cancer as the second leading cause of death in children, CURE has dedicated more than $38MM to specific research projects aimed at curing cancers that affect children.CURE is headquartered in Atlanta and has an active staff operating throughout the greater Savannah area. It is the only organization funding pediatric cancer research and providing this level of financial and emotional support to local children and families across Georgia and parts of South Carolina. For more information, visit www.curechildhoodcancer.org.
The 18th annual long-distance ride stretches to seven days from Georgia to Florida and back, affirming the five young men’s physical, mental, and spiritual transformation.
(SOUTHEAST Ga./CENTRAL Fla.) Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH), a fully accredited and licensed program dedicated to offering help to young men facing serious trouble or incarceration, is holding its 18th Annual Paul Anderson Bike Ride on Saturday, July 8, through Friday, July 14.
Expanded from five to seven days this year, five young men from the Home are set to cover more than 520 miles on an ambitious route that begins at the PAYH campus in Vidalia, Ga.
For nearly two decades, the Paul Anderson Bike Ride has commemorated a foundational moment in the history of the Paul Anderson Youth Home. At its founding in 1961, the former Olympic gold-medal winner decided to ride a bicycle from Vidalia, Ga., 1,200 miles to Omaha, Ne. His motivation then was the same as the five young men share today: to raise funds and awareness of the mission to give troubled young men a second chance through Christ. More than 60 years later, PAYH celebrates over 1,400 lives changed through a process of recovery, restoration, and redemption.
“Paul was an incredibly determined man, so when he decided to ride a bike 1,200 miles to Omaha, I felt it was Christ working through him. All these years later, I get the same feeling when these strong young men take to the road, keeping Paul’s legacy of faith and fitness alive,” said Glenda Anderson Leonard, Co-Founder and President of PAYH.
The five riders, like all other young men at PAYH, have been working to overcome a range of challenges, including emotional issues, substance abuse, legal trouble and spiritual deficiencies. The physical challenge of riding more than 520 miles over the course of seven days exemplifies their newfound mental strength and physical fitness, essential elements of the PAYH program. They also honor God through their transformation and achievement. Additionally, riders are sponsored by donors to raise funds for the youth home.
“It takes character to volunteer for this ride, because it is not easy. This endeavor honors the young men’s commitment to changing their lives, accepting the Lord’s word, and the memory of Paul, who was such a gifted athlete,” added Anderson Leonard.
The funds raised allow PAYH to more effectively carry out its mission of helping troubled youth. Supporters can meet the riders, contribute to their success, and become a part of the PAYH family at payhbikeride.com. To learn more about the Paul Anderson Youth Home and family resources, visit payh.org.
ABOUT PAUL ANDERSON YOUTH HOME Founded in 1961 by weightlifting world champion and Olympic gold medalist Paul Anderson and his wife, Glenda, the Paul Anderson Youth Home (PAYH) is a Christian residential program, with an on-campus school for young men between the ages of 16 and 21 struggling in the areas of behavioral problems, and issues of discipline, anger, and depression. PAYH is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). In addition to counseling and character development, PAYH offers an accelerated learning program enabling residents to graduate with a high school diploma and technical certifications. To date, over 1,400 young men have attended the program. The Home is located at 1603 McIntosh St. in Vidalia, GA. To learn more about PAYH, call (912) 537-7237 or visit www.payh.org.
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