The Cops for Cancer – Tour de Coast took place in late September and Sutton Group – West Coast Realty (Victoria) was proud to support this important event with a $3,000 donation.
Cops for Cancer is an annual bike ride to raise funds for research as well as programs to help victims cope with the disease. More than 100 law enforcement and emergency services personnel braved all types of weather as they cycled nearly two weeks across the daunting terrain of Vancouver Island, northern British Columbia, the Fraser Valley and the coast of the province.
“Most people have a co-worker or loved one who has been affected by cancer, so we felt it was important to support this event,” said Julie DeMelo a REALTOR® who volunteers on the donation committee at Sutton Group – West Coast Realty (Victoria) along with Deborah Farley and Danielle Moreau.
Cops for Cancer 2016 raised an impressive $487,445 for the Canadian Cancer Society, the ride organizer. During the nearly two-week ride, participants cycled through more than 60 communities. Residents provided a warm welcome showing participants and cancer victims that they are not alone on their journeys.
Some of the funds from Cops for Cancer support Camp Goodtimes. Since 1985, the camp has provided a safe, outdoor environment for children with cancer and their families. Camp Goodtimes has grown from assisting 25 children in the first year, to providing fun camping experiences for almost 600 people annually.
DeMelo said her office’s donation program has supported many good causes over the years.
“Each month, between 30 and 40 REALTORS® contribute to our donation program. Some people donate $10 while others may give $50 per month. Every bit helps. We distribute those funds three to four times per year. Our next project will be helping local families at Christmas.”
This story was adapted – with permission – from one originally featured on the Sutton Spirit website. The Sutton Spirit program recognizes Sutton associates across Canada that improve and enhance the lives of the people around them.
