IBEW Local 164 raises $50,000 for breast cancer programs & support groups

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.paramuspost.com/article.php/20080211124058341

By Mel Fabrikant Monday, February 11 2008, 12:40 PM EST Views: 73
Annual Project Grandma Proceeds Benefit Hackensack University Medical Center

To help women and their families win the battle against breast cancer, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 164 recently raised $50,000 as part of Project Grandma, an annual fund-raising project established to honor survivors and their loved ones. Since its inception nine years ago, the Local has raised more than $300,000.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 178,000 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer this year and about 40,460 will die from the disease. To assist women in their fight, Local 164 has earmarked this year’s proceeds for research at Hackensack University Medical Center in Hackensack, N.J., as well as cancer support services and programs offered by the American Cancer Society and Gilda’s Club of Northern New Jersey, also in Hackensack.

“Right now there are over two million women in the United States who have been treated for breast cancer. At Local 164, many of our members and their families have been touched by this disease,” explained Richard Dressel, the Local’s business manager. “Our goal is to support organizations that are committed to easing the burdens of our members and others in a similar situation.”

The annual campaign includes a capital drive, special events and raffles throughout the year. In addition, the Local hosts an evening to honor breast cancer patients, survivors and their families. This year’s comedy night event included a grand prize raffle for two to Las Vegas.

“This annual gathering achieves two very different objectives. In addition to raising much-needed funds to combat breast cancer throughout the year, we designate one night to celebrate hope and what these women, their spouses and children have endured,” explained Barry Hammond, who serves as Local 164’s chairman of the event, along with John Nordyk, chairman emeritus. “Project Grandma has become a tremendous source of inspiration for all of us.”

Project Grandma was initially named to honor breast cancer survivors related to IBEW Local 164 members, many of whom expressed their desire to overcome the disease and live to experience the joy of grandchildren. The Local has been recognized for its funding and awareness efforts on behalf of breast cancer by numerous organizations, including the Points of Light Foundation’s President’s Service Award.

To make a donation to Project Grandma or for more information, call IBEW Local 164 at [phone].