VALDOSTA — First Commerce Credit Union and the SGMC Foundation partnered during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October to again spearhead the annual #FlamingoChallenge, raising nearly $20,000 to benefit local cancer patients. All funds raised stay local and go directly to the Pearlman Cancer Center Breast Cancer Fund, which supports patients in the region, particularly those at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
“It was truly an honor to partner with the SGMC Foundation to help transform the communities we serve,” said Cecilia Homison, CEO of First Commerce Credit Union. “It is incredibly heartwarming to see our Greater Valdosta community come together to raise these much-needed funds that will have such a meaningful impact on the lives of countless breast cancer patients and their families for generations to come.”
The #FlamingoChallenge is a creative fundraiser created by First Commerce four years ago. Businesses, individuals, and other local organizations took part in the #FlamingoChallenge by making a pledge to donate, claiming a flock of pink yard flamingos to display at their business or home, posting a photo, and challenging others to do the same.
The top fundraiser in 2023 was a partnership among Chaparral and Robalo Boats, Coyote Manufacturing, and BH Electronics in Nashville, Ga., which held a Boston butt sale. The $11,000 raised through their efforts will directly benefit patients in Berrien County.
“We appreciate the support of our employees and community in the purchases during the Boston Butt Sale,” said Ann Baldree, senior vice president, Chaparral and Robalo Boats. “We are very proud that the funds stay in our local community to support the medical needs of women in our region.”
Overall, the 2023 #Flamingo Challenge raised a new record of more than $150,000 across South Georgia and North Florida. Since its inception four years ago, the #FlamingoChallenge has raised more than $350,000, with all funds being used to benefit cancer patients in their local communities, organizers said.