Van Andel Institute Purple Community
Van Andel Institute Purple Community is a grassroots fundraising program whose dedicated volunteers support VAI’s mission of improving the health and enhancing the lives of current and future generations.
Overview
VAI Purple Community is our dynamic community awareness and fundraising program that connects individuals, schools, teams, companies and corporations, that want to join the fight against cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, to the resources needed for action.
Get Involved
Van Andel Institute Marathon Team
The Van Andel Institute Marathon Team launched with the Bank of America Chicago Marathon in 2017, and has raised more than $308,000 to support research into cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases, as well as K–12 and graduate education programs at VAI.
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Student Ambassador Program
Work with your fellow Student Ambassadors to plan and execute one major fundraising event each school year, with support and mentorship from VAI scientists, educators and staff.
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Bee Brave
Throughout the last 15 years, Bee Brave has grown to become a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about raising breast cancer awareness, supporting fighters and honoring those whose battle has ended.
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Wendy Jo Blakely “Je t’aime” Fund
The Wendy Jo Blakely “Je t’aime” Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund was established to support pancreatic cancer research in honor of Wendy, who died from pancreatic cancer. Created by her husband, Rusty, it stands as a tribute to her lifelong commitment to healthcare and family.
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Volunteer and Fundraise
Host an event or start a fundraising campaign to help accelerate the speed of research and discovery at Van Andel Institute. There’s no limit to what you can do!
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