When we opened our new Southport Village office in the same building as the Connecticut Challenge Center for Survivorship this spring, we knew we were about to begin a long-term relationship with an organization of singular importance. The mission of the CT Challenge is to provide assistance to cancer survivors, who typically stop receiving support once their treatment ends. The main goal is to bridge the gap between completing treatment and regaining one’s health, and this is achieved through groups and classes that educate survivors on how to return to living a full, healthy life. Classes address physical, emotional and even spiritual needs, and cover subjects from nutrition and meditation to yoga and pilates. The programs that the CT Challenge develops and funds made a difference in the lives of more than 54,000 cancer survivors in 2012. Clearly this is vital work that is being performed, so when we were recently presented with an opportunity to show our support for this essential organization, William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty did not hesitate.
On July 27, bikers in the CT Challenge Bike Ride for Cancer Survivorship raised funds for survivorship programs and events, and we were there to demonstrate our enthusiastic support. Southport Village manager Brad Kimmelman along with over 15 agents volunteered at the event’s Southport rest stop, handing out water, Gatorade, Fig Newtons and cookies to participants. Riders of all ages chose from bike routes of 10, 25, 50, 75 or 100 miles around the Southern Connecticut countryside, and greatly appreciated the opportunity to take a breather at our stop.
“We believe the work that CT Challenge does in supporting survivors of cancer is incredibly important. After participating in this event, we all felt that we had done something extremely worthwhile for an organization that is helping people in a profound way,” said Kimmelman. “We are dedicated to supporting meaningful local causes, sharing a philosophy that since we are in the community we are also involved in the community. After all, we not only work here, but we live here as well.”
We invite you to check out our new video chronicling our experience at the event. Volunteering at the ninth annual ride was so rewarding that we are already planning on continuing our association with CT Challenge for a long time into the future. Cancer will at some point touch most of us, whether directly or through a friend or family member, so we are proud to be the best neighbors we can and do our part to help.
