Melanie LaFontaine

In a time of industry challenges, the Belle Isle New Year’s Eve Run is helping a Michigan-based non-profit to generate revenue and strengthen the community

[Detroit, MI, September 11, 2020] — In recognition of National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the Belle Isle New Year’s Eve Run announced today that U CAN-CER VIVE (UCCV) has committed to be the primary charity partner of the 2020 Belle Isle New Year’s Eve Run.

Presented by Freedom Over Fear, the Downtown Runners & Walkers Club and Hanson’s Running Shop, the Belle Isle New Year’s Eve Run will take the streets of Detroit for the 51st year on Thursday, December 31, 2020. The longest, consecutively held, Michigan event is once again scheduled to start at 4:00 PM and will be comprised of a 5k (3.1 miles), and a 1-Mile Fun Run.

The U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation, which provides vital funding and support for local cancer research grants, will serve as the official charity of the event. As such, the organization will receive charitable donations directly from the event proceeds as well as participant peer-to-peer fundraising. Moreover, the U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation will be supporting the event operations by having volunteers serving at the event.

“Our mission is to produce a first-class event for our running community that in-turn boosts the local economy and supports local charities,” stated race director, Stephen Moran. “We have all been impacted in some way or another, and our goal is to create a year-end celebration while raising awareness of and funds for local cancer research grants.”

“On behalf of the U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation, we are extremely excited to create a partnership with the New Year’s Eve Run and continue our mission for a cancer free world,” said Kelley LaFontaine, co-founder, UCCV. “This partnership will ultimately increase the impact we can have in regards to the world-class cancer research happening right in the state of Michigan, and that’s something we should all be proud of.”

Event information and online registration for the 2020 Belle Isle New Year’s Eve Run is available at https://belleislenye.enmotive.com. Donations for the U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation can also be made through event at https://belleislenye.enmotive.com/charity.

About the Belle Isle New Year’s Eve Run
Founded in 1969 by Jeanne Bocci, the New Year’s Eve Run is the longest, consecutively held road race in Michigan. Each year, participants from all over Michigan and parts of Canada join in the year-end celebration in remembrance of the passing year. The event has long partnered with the Downtown Runners & Walkers Club and Hanson’s Running Shop to bring a high-class event to the City of Detroit. In 2020, Jeanne Bocci retired after 50 years of service, and Stephen Moran stepped in as race director with over 20 years of experience.

About the U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation
Founded by siblings, Ryan and Kelley LaFontaine, it is the ongoing mission of the U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation to provide vital funding and support for local cancer research grants. Upon becoming an official nonprofit foundation in February 2016, U CAN-CER VIVE has raised over $2,000,000, providing funds for five research grants that are currently active in the State of Michigan. This passion toward the fight against cancer stems from the heart and soul of the LaFontaine’s commitment to give back after experiencing the affliction of cancer firsthand. Operated solely by passionate volunteers, we are proud to be able to donate 100% of profits to our cause.

On behalf of U CAN-CER VIVE Foundation, we truly look forward to being a part of this event in January. It’s going to be a great way to kick off the new year and we feel grateful to be involved in this event that takes place right in the heart of Detroit!