Stand Up for the Cure’s Michigan Event Will Continue as National Nonprofit Closes

San Diego, CA – Stand Up for the Cure, a national nonprofit organization known for hosting unique, fun, and family-friendly stand up paddling events for the benefit of early breast cancer detection, treatment, and education, has made the decision to dissolve its formal, non-profit organization. The Founder and Executive Director, Dan Van Dyck, is choosing to shift his focus towards his family while ensuring the legacy of their fundraising efforts endures.

Stand Up for the Cure has been a beacon of hope and support for breast cancer causes, combining the joy of stand up paddling with a deep commitment to improving early detection, access to treatment, and educational initiatives. Over the years, their dedicated team, enthusiastic participants, and generous sponsors have come together to make a significant impact in the fight against breast cancer, raising over $1,500,000 since their start in 2012.

While the official non-profit organization will be dissolving, Stand Up for the Cure remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting breast cancer causes. To honor this commitment, the local Muskegon, Michigan volunteer-lead committee will continue hosting an annual fundraiser event. The event aims to continue bringing the community together, rallying participants, sponsors, and volunteers for camaraderie and support for breast cancer awareness.

“We cannot thank Dan and the national board of directors enough for allowing us to continue with our Muskegon event, even though the national organization is officially closing.” Said Shawn Norden, Board President and Co-Chair of the Muskegon SUFTC event. “Our local support over the years has made Muskegon the largest event in the SUFTC schedule, and we could not see letting that go, given the continued encouragement from the West Michigan community. With SUFTC’s generous donation of event supplies & equipment, we will be able to pick things right back up in 2024 and continue with the level of professionalism, safety, paddling fun, and breast health education and fundraising.  We hope that everyone will continue to follow the organization and make plans to join us next year!”

Michigan-based beneficiaries of previous SUFTC donations, Hackley Community Care and the Van Andel Institute, will continue to be supported by the 2024 Muskegon event as the official non-profit partners. A combination of local screening and education services and leading edge breast cancer research has made these two organizations a perfect fit for meeting the SUFTC mission of ridding the world of breast cancer.

Van Dyck, the passionate driving force behind Stand Up for the Cure, expressed his gratitude to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. 

"It’s been an honor to witness the unwavering support we have received from the community throughout the years. While it's bittersweet to announce the dissolution of Stand Up for the Cure, I am immensely proud of the positive impact we have made in the fight against breast cancer. Having these event (s) continue is proof of the dedication and support our committee members and participants have for this cause." said Van Dyck. 

Stand Up for the Cure encourages all supporters, past participants, and breast cancer advocates to join them for the continued annual event in Muskegon, Michigan in July of 2024. It will be an opportunity to pay tribute to the organization's accomplishments, honor those affected by breast cancer, and further contribute to the cause.

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