WIPE OUT KIDS’ CANCER SECURES MAJOR COMMITMENT FOR PEDIATRIC CANCER RESEARCH, UNLOCKING $4 MILLION IMPACT
WOKC and the V Foundation for Cancer Research Partner to Eradicate Pediatric Cancer
Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer (WOKC) is partnering with the V Foundation for Cancer Research as WOKC celebrates its 45th anniversary gala on Saturday, April 25 at The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas. The V Foundation is matching $2 million of WOKC gala proceeds to co-fund a total of $4 million in game-changing pediatric cancer research grants. Remaining funds raised from the gala will support WOKC’s year-round programs, including its signature Buddy Bags and Warrior Family Program that provide activities and other much-needed support for kids with cancer and their families, many living under the poverty line. The partnership with the V Foundation underscores WOKC’s continued impact in the pediatric cancer space as the non-profit organization prepares for its gala with the rallying call of “Cancer Does NOT Define ME!” as its theme.
The research commitment reflects what has set WOKC apart for 45 years: the organization supports children and families in the earliest, most overwhelming moments of a cancer diagnosis while also investing in innovative research that can change outcomes for future patients.
“This $2 million matching opportunity is powerful not only because of its co-funding strength, but because of what $4 million represents in research discoveries for children and families facing pediatric cancer,” said Cindy Brinker Simmons, founder of Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer. “WOKC has always provided comfort and hope for the entire family through its multiple support programs while also relentlessly helping advance research that can lead to better treatments and brighter futures. This match allows WOKC to make an even greater impact in the fight against childhood cancer.”
“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to accelerating best-in-class research that drives real progress for children and their families battling cancer,” said Roger Ferguson, Chief Marketing Officer at the V Foundation. “We’re proud to work alongside WOKC to fund the most promising scientists on the frontlines of pediatric cancer research.”
WOKC’s 45th Anniversary Gala will be held with Tatiana and Peter Cancro serving as Honorary Chairs. Peter Cancro is the founder of Jersey Mike’s Subs. Through the enormous generosity of the Cancro’s and Jersey Mike’s since 2010, WOKC has been the recipient of over $6 million from them to further its critical mission to eradicate pediatric cancer.
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach and ESPN commentator. The V Foundation funds game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process overseen by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because an endowment covers administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations is awarded to cancer research and programs to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives. The V Foundation has granted more than $107 million toward innovative childhood cancer research through the Dick Vitale Pediatric Cancer Research Fund.
About WOKC
Founded in 1980, Wipe Out Kids’ Cancer offers comfort and hope to kids with cancer through support programs serving the entire family and funds innovative research leading to new discoveries and treatments in the fight against pediatric cancer. For more information on WOKC, follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or visit WOKC.org.
To learn more about WOKC’s 45th Anniversary Gala, visit wokc.org/gala.