Members of the Iowa Central Community College cross country team recently raised an impressive $4,000 for UnityPoint Health — Norma Schmoker Cancer Center. They celebrated this achievement with a photo op by the main entrance of Trinity Regional Medical Center, holding up a ceremonial check.
Community engagement has become a hallmark of the Iowa Central cross country program under the guidance of coach Dee Brown. This year’s donation marks a continuation of their fundraising efforts, which have been ongoing since the 2007-2008 season.
“The past two years have been our largest donations ever,” Brown shared. “It’s rewarding to know this money helps such a great cause.”
The team raised these funds through various activities, including the Firecracker 5K held in Webster City last July. They also sold specially designed “Race to Erase Breast Cancer” T-shirts during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“This year, our athletes created five different T-shirt designs. It was a fun process to vote for the best one. Almost everyone on the team got involved in selling,” Brown explained. They managed to sell over 300 shirts—an all-time high.
The donation supports the Norma Schmoker Cancer Center, renowned for its comprehensive approach to cancer care, from prevention to end-of-life services. As Brown noted, these efforts are vital not just for raising funds but for fostering a sense of purpose among athletes. “Our experience in athletics goes beyond just competing; it’s about developing better students and future leaders,” he said.
Recent statistics highlight the significance of community-driven initiatives. According to a report by the National Philanthropic Trust, charitable donations have increased by over 5% from the previous year, emphasizing the growing trend of community support in challenging times.
Such initiatives resonate on social media as well, where community-driven fundraising activities have seen increasing engagement. For instance, platforms like Instagram and Facebook are filled with local fundraising events, encouraging more people to participate and support their communities.
In short, the Iowa Central cross country team is setting a powerful example of how sports can unite people for a noble cause. This commitment to philanthropy not only benefits the community but also enriches the athletes’ own lives.
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Local News,Tritons donate to UnityPoint Health
