Susan G. Komen North Florida hosted a party April 12 to thank its sponsors, top fundraisers and survivors for their support during the Inaugural Ride for the Cure.
Held at the Mandarin Bonefish Grill, the event honored the more than 100 bicyclists who participated in the ride, which raised $16,000 for the organization. In March cyclists took to Nocatee for the 10- to 64-mile tours, a success due in part to the efforts of everyone involved.
“We can’t give out plaques or anything of that nature to so many people, of course. But we do want to show our gratitude and our appreciation,” said Delores Wise, executive director of Susan G. Komen North Florida. “We have an event like this after each ride as a way to show that we’re grateful for the support.”
It was support that many in attendance were happy to show.
“The rides are always a ton of fun,” said Tiffany Mayer, business development manager for AmeriSpec. “When else can you ride a bicycle in a hot pink feather boa and tutu? It’s all for a good cause.”
The party kept with the organization’s signature pink theme, with pink balloons floating above every table and a specially crafted assortment of pink foods not regularly included on the restaurant menu, including steak tartare, raspberry pickled radish salad and strawberry shortcake.
While guests were treated to the hors d’oeuvres, the next event wasn’t far from their minds, as the upcoming fundraiser quickly became a topic of conversation. The 22nd Annual North Florida Race for the Cure, Komen North Florida’s largest fundraiser, will take place in a new location this year on Oct. 15.
“This year, it’ll be held at the St. John’s Town Center,” Director of Development and Mission Initiatives Cindy Kruty said. “It’ll be much bigger and much better so it’s very exciting.”
To learn more about Susan G. Komen North Florida and to find out how to register for upcoming fundraising events, visit www.komennorthflorida.org.
