Tailgate For Cancer donates more than $150,000 in 2020

Despite dealing with a global pandemic, the St. Marys Tailgate for Cancer Committee raised $152,000 in donations in 2020, bringing its 12-year total to more than $1.4 million raised for cancer research and local organizations.

“COVID Can’t Stop Us,” was the unofficial theme for this year’s activities as the Committee persevered with some unique events. The actual Tailgate, which is typically held in conjunction with an Ohio State University football game, was canceled this fall.

The Committee held a “virtual” 5K run/ walk and a successful online auction. The annual Community T- Shirt Day was also a big success. Other events included the annual golf outing; a carry- out chicken dinner; honor boards and mums in Memorial Park and community businesses, organizations and individuals responded with sponsorships and donations.

“Considering the circumstance, this was a tremendous year,” said Traci Lauth, who serves

as president of the all-volunteer Tailgate Committee. “We are humbled by the donations and support we have received that help us make donations to beat cancer.”

This year’s donations include: $100,000 to the OSU James Cancer Research Center; $16,500 to the Auglaize County Cancer Association; $14,000 to the Mercer County Cancer Association; $12,000 to the Auglaize County Crippled Children and Adults Association and $10,000 to the JTD Hospital Foundation, earmarked for cancer-related spending.

“It’s not just our committee that make this happens, but there are many volunteers who support our events and put on their own events to raise money,” Lauth said. “We are truly thankful to all these people, and the community at large, for another tremendously successful year.”

Plans are already under way for the 13th annual St. Marys Tailgate for Cancer in 2021.

Details will be posted on the organization’s website (TailgateForCancer.com) and Facebook page as they become available.