UMass Chan Medical School has announced Harr Toyota as the presenting sponsor of the 24th annual UMass Cancer Walk and Run to be held on Sunday, Oct. 2, at Polar Park.
“Harr Toyota is honored to serve as the presenting sponsor of this critically important event in Central Massachusetts,” said Mike Gross, president/general manager of Harr Toyota. “Many of us have been touched by cancer—perhaps through personal diagnosis—or by a family member, friend or colleague diagnosed with the disease. Our donation will help reduce the suffering and deaths caused by this disease.”
Each year thousands take part in the event and 100 percent of the money donated supports adult and pediatric cancer research and care, and clinical trials of potentially lifesaving therapies at UMass Chan.
“Harr Toyota has been a steadfast partner of the UMass Cancer Walk and Run and we are grateful for their ongoing support,” said Traci Heath, manager of the UMass Cancer Walk and community fundraising. “This signature sponsorship will help us continue to conduct cutting-edge cancer research at the highest level.”
The walk and run has become one of the region’s signature fundraising events. The Worcester Telegram & Gazette named the walk the Best Fundraising Event in 2021 and 2020 and the Worcester Business Journal chose it as the best nonprofit fundraiser event in Central Massachusetts. The 2021 event raised more than $700,000 for cancer research and clinical trials. The fundraising goal for this year’s event, which carries a "superhero" theme, is $850,000.
“Throughout the course of its history, thousands upon thousands of ‘superheroes’ from across the region have emerged to lace their sneakers and take part in the walk. This year we honor these superheroes—patients with cancer and their family members, health care providers, researchers, volunteers—and you. By raising money and taking part in the walk, you have the power to save lives,” UMass Chan Medical School Chancellor Michael F. Collins said in a video earlier this year.
Visit umasscancerwalk.org to start a fundraising page, start a team or make a donation.
