Cause a for Companies Local Organizations Organize Race Teams Organizer Alexandra Brax explains, “We try to make a difference in the lives of our fellow employees and the communities they serve.”
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ach year, the Komen NEPA Race for the Cure welcomes a variety of race teams, old and new. Many companies and organizations return year after year to support the cause. Faithful participants include UPS, Gentex and Arley Wholesale.
UPS started its team in 2007. In 2016 the team had 104 runners and walkers. From 2010-2015, UPS was recognized as the “Largest Corporate Team” participating in the race. A group of employees volunteer to bring it all together each year, getting involved at each stage of the team-building process. In the past, they have been recognized for “Best TShirt” and “Tickle Me Pink” awards for best t-shirt design
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Arley Warehouse’s team is among the newer participants. The company, started in 1935 in Scranton, has truly become a part of the community. Interested in giving back to the community, company executive Arlene Gevanthor and Vice President Bruce Gevanthor first proposed the idea of taking part in the Race for the Cure. Organized by a team of eight and best-decorated facility. Organizer Carolyn Thomas points out, “We have lost coworkers, friends, family, etc to breast cancer. Everyone knows someone affected.” UPS encourages its employees to really be a part of the community, and this event proves to be a great opportunity to not only work on team building and leadership, but to reach out to the community. The UPS team has a long day with a few members arriving at Courthouse Square as early as 5 a.m. for set up. 2017 marks the 19th year for the Gentex team’s participation in the NEPA Race for the Cure. The team is brought together by volunteers across the company. Each year, nearly 120 Gentex employees take part in the Race for the Cure— some are cancer survivors themselves.
employees and managers, Arley’s team will lace up for their second Race for the Cure this year. Last year’s team had 20 members, and they plan to bring an even bigger team this time out. A tight-knit, supportive community, organizers emphasize that employees get excited about the opportunity to come together to support this cause. Team Captain Christiana Gianzanti explains, “Race day for us is a very supportive and uplifting experience. Being in
Courthouse Square on Race Day and seeing so many survivors gives you the drive to overcome any obstacle that you encounter.” H –Melissa Durante