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Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month Kick-Off Event Part of Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival in Danville

8/31/2021
(Danville, PA) - September 2024 will mark the 10th year Service 1st Federal Credit Union and other local organizations and community volunteers have joined forces to help fight pediatric cancer and raise funds to benefit the ThinkBIG® Pediatric Cancer Fund.

This year, the Central & Northeastern PA Pediatric Cancer Awareness Committee is excited to kick-off their month-long calendar of events as part of the 2024 Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival happening along Mill Street in Downtown Danville on Saturday, September 7 from 9 am to 4 pm. The Committee, along with ThinkBIG® Pediatric Cancer Fund and Old Forge Brewing Company, will be set up within Canal Park with live music, children’s activities, and ways you and your family can help raise funds, awareness and make a difference in the lives of those battling pediatric cancer.

This Going Gold initiative, which began locally in 2015, has raised over $112,250 to help ThinkBIG® carry out its mission to lessen financial stress for families with children fighting the disease. Since ThinkBIG® started in 2014, the organization has provided over $1.5 million in financial support to local families.

"It takes a village to raise a child, and it takes a caring group of people to support families battling pediatric cancer,” said Diane Dutko, Executive Director, ThinkBIG. “This event is a wonderful way to bring our communities together, and ThinkBIG is forever grateful for this support and the hard work and dedication of so many wonderful people. Thank you for making a difference for our families." 

Dr. Colby Wesner, Founder/President of ThinkBIG, added, "ThinkBIG is always extremely grateful for the hard work and generosity of all the businesses and individuals who help plan events during September to bring awareness to pediatric cancer and also raise funds for our organization. It is these efforts that really help ThinkBIG continue to financially support pediatric cancer patients and their families in the region, and I know these families are grateful for the support.”

The ThinkBIG® Pediatric Cancer Fund reported that nearly 15,500 children in the United States are diagnosed with cancer every year.  Research to help find a cure for pediatric cancer is severely underfunded. Some report that only 4% of available government funding goes to support pediatric cancer research. But, together, we can make a difference. 

Entertainment Scheduled for the September 7 Event
Bring a lawn chair or blankets and join us for a great line-up of live entertainment in Canal Park including:

•    10 am – Bryan Noaker
•    11 am – Iron Ukulele Benders
•    12 pm – Local Canals Presentation by Captain Mick
•    1 pm  –  Rebecca Jade
•    2 pm  –  David Pulizzi 
•    3 pm –   Van Wagner

Gold Dust | A Special Tradition Continues
In addition to the awareness events, a special tradition is continuing. For the past few years, Old Forge Brewing Company, located in Danville, and Marley’s Brewery & Grille, located in Bloomsburg, have collaborated on a special brew. Last year, the collaboration expanded to include Rusty Rail Brewing Company, located in Mifflinburg. Together, they have partnered to produce Gold Dust. This is not only helping to expand fundraising efforts but is also helping to expand awareness about this special cause.

“We always look forward to Gold Dust season,” said Damien Malfara, Owner, Old Forge Brewing Company. “The beer tastes great, and it also supports a great cause. Thanks to all the volunteers and partners who put in the time and effort to pull this off. We are glad to be a part of it and invite everyone to check out all the events in September and show your support for the ThinkBIG Pediatric Cancer Fund.” 

“We’re happy to help,” said Logan Powell, Head Brewer, Rusty Rail Brewing Company. “I used to live in Bloomsburg and have known about ThinkBIG long before we supported it. I had Gold Dust at Old Forge and Marley’s. We’re always happy to give back to the community and spread awareness of this important cause.”

A portion of the proceeds from this special pale ale sold during September 2024 will benefit ThinkBIG®. Gold Dust will be available during the September 7 event. All proceeds from this event will benefit ThinkBIG®.

Mark Your Calendar | Other upcoming Going Gold Events
•    Sat. 9/7 from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Kick-Off at the Danville Fall Arts & Crafts Festival, Canal Park, Mill Street, Danville
•    Tues. 9/10 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Family Night at Old Forge Brewing Company, Mill Street, Danville
•    Thurs. 9/12 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Trivia Night at Watson Inn, Main Street, Watsontown
•    Mon. 9/16 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Trivia Night at Arrowhead Bar & Restaurant, PA- 405, Milton

To learn more about the Committee’s September events, where to find Gold Dust, or how to donate, visit www.service1.org/goinggold, or call 800.562.6049.

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