The company known for their lovable reptile, the GEICO Gecko, continued their track record of providing outstanding community service as a sponsor of “HOPE”, our Blue Star mascot at the 2015 Buffalo Undy Run/Walk. Team Gecko Tails gave colon cancer a kick in the fanny with their phenomenal fundraising efforts. Led by team captain Adam Miller, GEICO associates raised over $6,400 in support of the Walk. We asked Adam how he got his Tail to the Undy:
How long has GEICO been sponsoring the Buffalo Undy?
This is the third year that GEICO has sponsored the Buffalo Undy Run.
Why does GEICO choose to get involved with this event?
GEICO began its relationship with the Undy Run/Walk three years ago, during the second annual race in Buffalo. My close personal friend, and the Chairwoman of the Buffalo Undy, Tess Fraser had lost her mother to colon cancer. And, after seeing her struggle with the impact this disease had on her family, I reached out to the GEICO Corporate Community Citizens team, who manages our community outreach, to see how we could get involved.
Over the years, the support has grown in size throughout our office as we continue to spread the message to our associates and their families.
How does the GEICO team raise money and build excitement for the Undy ?
This year, we got a little creative with our fundraising efforts.We offered casual dress days (where associates would donate to our team and in exchange they got to dress down for the day), offered gifts to those who donated and even had a cereal buffet! Through these fundraising initiatives, we were able to spread awareness and excitement about our involvement in the race throughout our office. As a result, we were able to triple our team size compared to last year and received very generous donations from our hard-working colleagues.
Any other comments that you would like to include about your involvement with the Undy?
The Buffalo GEICO office is very proud to have a hand in spreading the Colon Cancer Alliance's mission to our community. We aim to match their dedication to building support networks and spreading awareness about this treatable disease—especially through the Undy. We hold this event very near and dear to our hearts, like so many other Western New Yorkers, and are thrilled to be able to participate again!
Don’t forget, the Colon Cancer Alliance serves as a source of information about colon health. If you have additional questions about colon cancer screening or are in need of support, please contact our free Helpline at (877) 422-2030. We’re here to help.