After being relegated to the sidelines and forced into a virtual version of the popular Alex’s Duck Duck Run for Childhood Cancer Research last summer, the 9th Annual Race by the Alex Mandarino Foundation emerged this weekend with a spectacular finish topping $35,000 for the cause through the help of United Federal Credit Union.
Jodie Kitchell, United Federal’s Regional Market Development Manager, says, “Alex’s Duck Duck Run is an event our team is thrilled to be part of year after year,” and adds, “United is dedicated to helping our members and the community where we’re needed most. The important work being done by The Alex Mandarino Foundation to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer research is something our team couldn’t be prouder to support.”
After having to rework the event into a virtual race in 2020 due to COVID-19, this year’s race brought runners and walkers back to the Margaret Upton Arboretum in downtown St. Joseph for race day. Around 500 people participated in the event on Saturday, June 19th.
Tony Mandarino, founder of The Alex Mandarino Foundation, says, “We are excited the event was able to take place again in person this year so that we can continue to honor Alex’s legacy and raise funds for such an underfunded cause: childhood cancer research,” while adding, “To have people come out and to do this in remembrance of Alex does our hearts good as we know he isn’t forgotten with the passage of time.”
Founded in 2013 by Tony and Katie Mandarino, The Alex Mandarino Foundation honors the courage and strength of their son, Alex. The foundation provides critical funding for research related to the prevention, treatment, and ultimate cure of neuroblastoma and other pediatric cancers. It is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charity. For more information you can visit online at: http://thealexmandarinofoundation.org.
United Federal Credit Union has served its members since 1949 by helping them to build a sound financial future. United consists of more than 180,000 member/owners worldwide and manages assets in excess of $3.7 billion. Its corporate offices and main branch are in St. Joseph, with additional branches elsewhere in Michigan as well as in Arkansas, Indiana, Nevada, North Carolina, and Ohio. For more information you can visit http://UnitedFCU.com
