Insurer-led non-profit Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade (WICC) has secured six-figure funding aimed at supporting cancer research in its recently concluded 24th annual gala.
The organization raised a total of $150,000 in donated funds from the June 29 event, which included a sold-out raffle and online auction. The money will go directly to various research projects in partnership with the Canadian Cancer Society’s grant proposal process.
“Thank you for your continued support and a toast to the amazing triumphs, challenges overcome, new traditions, memories, and perspectives we have all gained from the last two years,” said Laurel DiMaso, WICC Gala co-chair and vice-president of business strategy at Integricon Property Restoration & Construction Group.
Since its inception in 1996, WICC and its supporters within Canada’s property and casualty (P&C) insurance industry have raised more than $18.6 million in support of cancer research and education.
During the event, the organization recognized the generosity of its sponsors through several awards announced by the WICC board.
The Lew Dunn Memorial Award is presented to a volunteer or company that demonstrated exceptional initiative in raising awareness and commitment in support of WICC. It was named after Lew Dunn, former chief executive of CGU Canada – now Aviva Canada – who lost his battle with cancer in 1999.
Newcom Media took home the award for the assistance it provided in various areas in 2021, including the new logo design for the 2021 re-branding and support of the 25th-anniversary celebrations.
The Gold Flame Awards are given to individuals or organizations that have made donations exceeding $5,000 and/or made significant contributions through commitment and raising awareness. This year’s recipients are Echelon Insurance, Unica Insurance, and Markel Insurance.
Northbridge Insurance won the Hall of Flame Award, which is WICC’s highest recognition for individuals or organizations donating more than $20,000 and/or making significant contributions through commitment and raising awareness.
Northbridge Insurance is also recognized as the Top Professional Liability Insurance and D&O Insurance Companies in Canada. Read more here.
Northbridge gave a gift of $25,000 to the cause, which was “over and above their usual annual sponsorship,” WICC said in a statement.
