With running as its venue to make a statement and raise funds, New Balance moves into encouraging individuals to have "a new balance in life" by supporting programs related to cancer. 

Dubbed as the 2009 New Balance Power Run… Raising HOPE, is set to happen on September 27 at the Fort Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. The proceeds of the 2009 New Blance Power Run… Raising HOPE will benefit Carewell (Cancer Resource and Wellness Community), Philippine Cancer Society, and ICanServe Foundation.   These three organizations have been at the forefront of providing support to help improve the lives of men and women diagnosed with cancer. These organizations work with business groups and individuals to spread the advocacy on cancer awareness. But still, there is a lot of work that needs to be done to let individuals and their families challenged with cancer know that there can be hope and there is a better way to cope with cancer.

As the number one running footwear, New Balance is encouraging all running enthusiasts to participate and be counted in this benefit run and channel their energies and spirit to a positive endeavor.  The activity can be a venue for them to reach out and help through doing what they love.  The 2009 New Balance Power Run…  Raising HOPE will feature 21K, 10K, 5K, and 3K with registration fees of Php 500.00 for the 21K, Php 350.00 for the 10K, Php 300 for the 5K and Php 250.00 for the 3K category. 

“As an organization, we wanted to create a positive impact in our community.  And, as a brand that embraces the love for running, we decided to do something about it,” Anton Gonzalez, president of Planet Sports Inc. said.  “From the past events, we saw the runners’ passion, especially during the New Balance Power Race.  With their help, we aim to lead the way to direct this passion to something that is more valuable and they can be more proud of.”

Proceeds of the New Balance Power Run… Raising HOPE will support Philippine Cancer Society’s endeavor to reach 25,000 participants for the Lecture Series, about 15,000 women for breast and cervical examinations and schools for youth anti-smoking campaign in 2010. The Power Run will support Carewell Community’s program to help people with cancer and their families cope more effectively with cancer by providing support groups and counseling, medical consult and referrals, wellness talks and fun activities. For ICanServe, the Power Run will aid the “Ating Dibdibin” project, a community-based screening program that promotes breast cancer awareness, early detection and support for of breast cancer patients.

Now is the best time to put on those running shoes and drive that passion for a cause.  From August 8 until September 20, interested participants to the 2009 New Balance Power Run… Raising HOPE may visit New Balance. Registration form is also available at www.newbalance.com.ph.

(Write the author at wellbeing@mb.com.ph or owenbautista@mysandbox.com.ph.)