Winter Cocktail Kicks-off LLS 2012 Man & Woman of the Year Campaign
Delicious wine, delectable food and delightful company gathered at the Villa de los Amantes, Wednesday, February 8th, 2012, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) had their Winter Cocktail kick-off for the 2012 Man & Woman of the Year Campaign. The event was graciously hosted by Tracy Orolin and Harry Faulkner.
LLS is the world’s largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The Man & Woman of the Year is a unique national campaign that focuses on raising funds, awareness and advocacy in the fight against blood cancers such as leukemia, lymphoma, and melanoma.
A select group of remarkable men and women from 73 campaigns across America compete for the title each year in a ten-week fundraising challenge.
“Three of my friends were candidates last year,” says Sarah Tucker, 2012 candidate and makeup artist. “My goal is to create events that distinguish themselves, philanthropic while having a good time.”
Candidates raise money in honor of the Boy and Girl of the Year. These children are patient heroes chosen for their strength and endearing attitudes.
“After being around Noah (Boy of the Year) and his family, I wanted to raise funds and make an impact for families with kids in need,” says Kalon McMahon, 2012 candidate and Hospitality Consultant. “The opportunity to be involved presented itself, and I wanted to be on board.”
Candidates are nominated by the Nominating Committee made up of chapter staff, local LLS supporters and the chapter Board of Trustees.
Paul August, 2012 candidate and pianist, encountered Vita Burns, LLC board member, in a parking lot and became inspired to participate in the campaign.
“My mother had passed from leukemia in October, and shortly after that I came in contact with Vita Burns,” August said. “After speaking with her a few times, she convinced me to consider this campaign. I immediately told her I am willing to participate.”
Candidates typically have a personal connection to LLS or a willingness to learn about it, are self-motivators, enthusiastic, well-networked and success driven.
“I have personally been touched by someone with cancer, and this year I decided to take the Man & Woman of the Year challenge because I felt it was time that I stepped up and committed to something,” says Joe Francisco, 2012 candidate.
Each Candidate is asked to raise a minimum amount of $10,000. “Raising money is key, as well as, meeting people, making a difference, and raising awareness,” Francisco added.
By Shruti Purohit
Shruti recently graduated from University of Houston with a BBA in Finance and a BA in Communications with a concentration in Journalism. On her free time, she loves to find new up and coming lounges/bars and restaurants where she can hang out with friends and family. Also, traveling is a must! Her goal is to visit every continent at some point.
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