STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – The Coaches vs. Cancer-Penn State chapter works tirelessly throughout the year with one goal in mind – to make a difference in the fight against cancer. This fall, CVC-Penn State accomplished a major goal in its mission, eclipsing the $3 million milestone for total net funds raised.
"The men and women who volunteer their talents and time to our Coaches vs. Cancer-Penn State chapter personify selflessness, sacrifice and dedication. I am thankful for their efforts as this organization assists individuals in their battles against cancer," said Nittany Lion head coach Patrick Chambers. "Our Penn State chapter has been recognized nationally for its success in fundraising and this is another great achievement, one that has a tremendous impact on our local community."
Funds raised through the American Cancer Society's Coaches Vs. Cancer support the ACS mission to help people Stay Well, Get Well, Fund Cures, and Fight Back, both on a local and national level.
Established in 1995 under then-head Nittany Lion basketball coach and State College, Pennsylvania, native, Bruce Parkhill, Coaches vs. Cancer-Penn State raises funds to support the American Cancer Society as well as the Bob Perks Cancer Assistance Fund, a local nonprofit that provides direct support to those in the local community who are fighting cancer and need assistance with everyday household bills.
CVC-Penn State sponsors a year-round fundraising program, including its flagship event, the annual Coaches vs. Cancer® golf outing. CVC-Penn State is also fortunate to be the beneficiary of third-party events including the State College Brew Expo and the Reverse Car Drawing.
The flagship event of the CVC-Penn State program is the annual Coaches vs. Cancer® Golf Tournament. The 22nd annual event in May 2018 welcomed over 300 golfers, including former Penn State student-athletes and coaches, and nearly 100 sponsors, including presenting sponsor, PSECU. The tournament was another great success with a net total of $130,000 raised.
The Reverse Car Drawing, held in partnership with the Bestwick Foundation annually each fall, benefits both organizations. In 2017, the CVC funds provided room accommodations for 29 patients and their caregivers from Centre County, who stayed 511 nights at the American Cancer Society's Hope Lodge in Hershey, saving them over $76,000 in lodging costs.
The annual Coaches vs. Cancer® basketball game for 2018-19 is set for Thursday, Jan. 31, 2019, when Penn State plays host to Purdue in the Bryce Jordan Center. In addition to cheering on the Nittany Lions, the game provides an opportunity to thank the CVC Sponsors, and even more importantly, to emphasize the team effort to help people with the battle against cancer. A portion of each single-game ticket sold for the Jan. 31 game vs. Purdue benefits CVC.