On June 4, the Sandra and Leon Levine Jewish Community Center hosted the 6th Annual LJCC Kids Triathlon, presented by UTC Aerospace Systems. Over 185 children of all ages, athletic abilities and cultural backgrounds gathered to swim, bike and run for a cause. The event was a great success with $180,300 in net proceeds being raised for pediatric rehabilitation services at Levine Children’s Hospital and the Adaptive Sports and Adventures Program (ASAP) at Carolinas Rehabilitation.
Leon Levine delivered remarks to the crowd, followed by Gene Woods, President and CEO of Carolinas HealthCare System, thanking participants for their efforts to improve health and elevate hope throughout the Carolinas and beyond. Carolina Panther’s tight end Greg Olsen also addressed the group and congratulated the kids on their team efforts to support their community hospital. (Top fundraisers had their chance to take special photos with their “hometown hero.”)
Children raised funds through lemonade stands, bake sales, and neighborhood friends and family. This year’s fundraising total included a $25,000 grant from The Leon Levine Foundation, which the Kids Tri received after meeting (and exceeding) the challenge goal of raising $90,000.
A special thank you goes to the events honorary co-chairs, Dale and Larry Polsky and to the following lead sponsors: UTC Aerospace systems, Ally Financial, Bissell Companies, Rodgers Builders, and Jan & Ed Brown. Other supporters include Bank of America, Foundation for the Carolinas, Lab Corps, Julie and Howard Levine, Hugh McColl, Parent Financial, and Lori & Eric Sklut.