PIMCO: Supporting a Future Immune to Cancer

Recognized in the 2016 Civic 50—an annual initiative by Points of Light that highlights the 50 most community-minded companies in the US—investment management firm PIMCO has earned a reputation as a “do-gooder.” Since 2007, PIMCO has incorporated community outreach into its corporate framework as a way to build empathy, skills, and relationships among its employees.

So when the company committed to sponsor the 5K portion of the Cancer Research Institute Answer to Cancer, PIMCO employees weren’t surprised.

“From our grant making to employee volunteering opportunities, PIMCO is always finding ways to support and engage with local nonprofits,” said Sarah Middleton, executive director of the PIMCO Foundation, PIMCO’s philanthropic arm. “Our sponsorship of the Answer to Cancer is another example of the PIMCO Foundation’s commitment to the community.”

The Cancer Research Institute launched the Answer to Cancer (A2C) in 2016. A2C is a charity endurance event in which participants ride 25, 50, or 100 miles, or run/walk a 5K in support of cancer immunotherapy research and awareness. Each participant is required to fundraise, and 100% of funds they raise will support lifesaving research. On June 10, 2017, more than 400 riders, runners, and walkers will converge on West Point, NY for the event, including Team PIMCO.

“Participating in A2C has been great for staff bonding,” said Middleton. “From training rides and runs to fundraising events, preparing for A2C has provided our colleagues with an opportunity to connect beyond work—and it’s all for a worthy cause.”

CRI is thrilled to have Team PIMCO among A2C’s 15 corporate teams.  “We deeply appreciate the support provided by the PIMCO Foundation,” says CRI CEO and director of scientific affairs, Jill O’Donnell-Tormey, Ph.D. “Participation in the Answer to Cancer is an excellent opportunity for employees to come together as a team while supporting lifesaving cancer research.”

If your organization is interested in sponsoring the Answer to Cancer or would like to form a team, please contact Sharon Slade, director of strategic initiatives, at sslade@cancerresearch.org.