In recognition of September being Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Northwestern Mutual Eastern Iowa is partnering with Hy-Vee’s stores, including those in the Quad Cities, to host lemonade stands to raise funds and awareness for childhood cancer.
All proceeds will support the fight against childhood cancer through Northwestern Mutual’s partnership with nonprofit Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. The lemonade stands will be open at Hy-Vee stores from 4-6 p.m. on varying Thursdays and Fridays during the month of September.
“We are excited to partner with Hy-Vee in supporting this great cause, as the organization is dedicated to giving back to the community through various philanthropic events,” said Kalvin Grabau Keele, managing partner of Northwestern Mutual Eastern Iowa. “At Northwestern Mutual, we want to improve the lives of children and families in need. Sharing our time and treasures is just one small way we can join in the fight against childhood cancer and leave an impact on our communities.”
In addition to the Quad-Cities, Hy-Vee will have lemonade stands at its stores in Cedar Rapids-Marion, Cedar Falls-Waterloo, Dubuque and Coralville.
This year alone, more than 10,000 children will be diagnosed with cancer.
The support comes on the heels of Northwestern Mutual’s Cedar Rapids-based firm announcement of a $100,000 commitment to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital over the next three years. Of the donation, $50,000 will go toward the nursing support fund to help improve the culture and experience on the pediatric cancer floor while also providing holistic long-term support to the nursing staff. In addition, $50,000 will also be used to support the Northwestern Mutual Eastern Iowa Pediatric Oncology Research Fund.
Since 2012, Northwestern Mutual’s Childhood Cancer Program has focused on accelerating the search for better treatments and cures, while supporting families undergoing treatment and survivors suffering from the lasting effects. With support of its employees and financial advisors nationwide, the Milwaukee, Wisconsin-based company has contributed more than $40 million and funded more than 500,000 hours of research through the program.
