Classy Awards Wrap-Up!

Re-writing this post because the first one was lost when my browser crashed, so I may not remember everything from the first draft. :(

This past weekend I attended the 3rd Annual Classy Awards in San Diego and I’ve returned to Chicago with an energized sense of duty and purpose. Being in the room with so many talented, intelligent, driven, and giving people who are inspiring and creating good in the world, is overwhelmingly invigorating. I was moved emotionally by hearing the stories and impact made by the other nominees, speakers, and organizations being featured.

Living Philanthropic had the honor of being a Top 10 nominee for Volunteer of Year, which is an amazing category filled with so many amazing people. As I said in an interview with Metromix San Diego, “Each nominee is only a small representation of all the awe inspiring work being done by millions of volunteers across the U.S and they all deserve a little recognition.”

The award went to Troy Yocum of Hike for the Heroes! Interestingly enough, I donated to Troy and his mission back in October of 2010 on Day 162 of Living Philanthropic. Troy and his efforts support Wish Upon a Hero! When I saw he was nominated, I knew he was going to win. What he accomplished is nothing short of amazing. I salute you, buddy, you are amazing! Congratulations!

Looking around the room at all the other Top Ten nominees, I was proud to see a few other Living Philanthropic featured charities who made the top ten! Including another winner for Most Creative Fundraiser, Alex’s Lemonade, which was Day 131 and the first featured charity of the month on Living Philanthropic! Others included Wish Upon a Wedding (Day 145), Keep a Breast (Day 99), and Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (Day 250).

This was truly an incredible experience and honor. Thank you to the Stay Classy staff (especially Tori, Mike, & Julie) and the sponsors for acknowledging the work and efforts of organizations and individuals who are making our world a better place. You rock!

Day 250: Pancreatic Cancer Action Network

Yesterday was my uncle’s funeral, I am so sad that I could not be there, I feel lucky I was able to say goodbye to him at the hospital on the night he passed. I miss you, uncle Pete. Today’s give goes to another organization creating hope and funding research to fight pancreatic cancer. While my uncle had lung cancer, cancer can affect many different parts of the body and to help these specialized organizations is one way to help those directly affected. 

Founded in 1999 by three visionaries as a small, non-profit, 501(c)(3) patient-based advocacy organization, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network understands the many challenges that patients and their families face in the fight against pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is the national organization creating hope in a comprehensive way through research, patient support, community outreach and advocacy for a cure. The organization raises money for direct private funding of research—and advocates for more aggressive federal research funding of medical breakthroughs in prevention, diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network fills the void of information and options by giving patients and caregivers reliable, personalized information they need to make informed decisions. The organization helps support individuals and communities all across the country work together to raise awareness and funds to find a cure for pancreatic cancer. They create a sense of hope and community so no one has to face pancreatic cancer alone.

Amount Donated: $5

To support Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, please visit: http://www.pancan.org