Photos Courtesy of Busath Films.

If you’re feeling “in the pink” this spring, you are not alone! The Hunstman Cancer Institute and one of its signature events – Pink Park City – have teamed up this March to bring you a month-long opportunity to celebrate ourselves and those we love through a virtual giving campaign supporting cancer research that runs through March 27.

Promoting the theme, “It’s about the people,” Pink Park City (pinkparkcity.com) has transformed from a costumed-filled, bubble-gum-hued ski day in Park City into a four-week celebration of loved ones, family members, friends and ourselves, all of whom have been touched by cancer in one way or another.

Susan Sheehan, president and COO of Huntsman Cancer Foundation, said Pink Park City recognizes that cancer is personal, and it certainly didn’t stop for a pandemic. She hopes this year’s theme reflects Pink Park City’s message of hope, and notes that every dollar raised is hope for someone — a family member, friend, etc. By giving, you are giving the gift of hope!

“While the current pandemic has restricted our ability to gather on the mountain, it is important to still hold Pink Park City to create a place of hope and strength for those who battle cancer, and those who support them,” said Sheehan.

“Cancer continues to be diagnosed. Research continues regardless of other events, and our friends in Park City and beyond continue to inspire and generously give to support research. We have a community of individuals who are passionate about supporting cancer research, and we are excited to celebrate their efforts every time.”

This year’s event includes three ways to participate:

• Create a fundraising page: The Pink Park City website gives you a complete toolkit to set up your own page (it’s free!) and let others know why you are raising money for cancer research. Incentives include beanies, baseball caps, recognition on the yearly donor scrolls at Huntsman Cancer Instituteeven a Basecamp Team Flag, which will be showcased at next year’s event, for those who raise $3,500.
• Donate to a friend’s fundraising page: Every donation counts, so find a friend or family member who has an active fundraising page and donate to their campaign. To date, nearly 270 pages have been created in honor of those touched by cancer. Join in on their efforts!
• Donate in honor of a loved one: Make a symbolic gift directly to HCI in honor of a loved one. Note: Each donation made on this site will be entered for a chance to win fun prizes such as branded snowboards, gear bags, water bottles and more from Pink Park City‘s presenting event sponsor, Rockstar Energy Drink!

This year marks the third official Pink Park City event, which kicked off in 2018 and has raised $245,000 over its first two years. In 2020, Pink Park City was on track to reach its goal of $300,000 before in-person events shut down due to the pandemic, and fundraising was halted at just over $177,000. This year’s goal is $225,000 and includes contributions made in 2020.

Make the most of your participation:

• Several companies have matching gift programs, so look to double your donations.
• Spread the word: Use your social media to reach a whole new network of people beyond your immediate contacts. You’ll be surprised at the extra donations that can come in just by sharing your personal fundraising page on social media using the hashtag #PinkParkCity.
• Connect and be inspired: To see some of the inspiring stories, photos and videos from previous celebrations, shoutouts to sponsors and donors, and more, visit Pink Park City’s social media pages on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram (#PinkParkCity).

Pink Park City supports research for ALL types of cancer by raising money for Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City. Participants and donors even have the opportunity to restrict their funds to support research for a specific type of cancer. Funds from Pink Park City and the efforts of HCI go toward better understanding the beginnings of cancer and discovering more effective treatments, hence helping to relieve suffering and improve the quality of life for cancer patients, survivors and their families.

To see Pink Park City’s campaign progress, fundraising leaderboard and complete details, visit pinkparkcity.com.