2025 Event is the Biggest Ever Avera Race Against Cancer

The 37^th Avera Race Against Cancer had a record-breaking 7,747 participants, raising a record $765,000 to benefit local cancer patients across the Upper Midwest.

The Avera Race took place Saturday, May 10, across the Avera system, with events in Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Mitchell, Pierre and Yankton, SD, and Marshall, MN.

In Yankton, race day events included the announcement of a $7 million fundraising campaign, Building Hope Here, to support an Avera Cancer Institute location offering comprehensive cancer services in Yankton. In partnership with the event, Avera Foundation announced a lead gift from Yankton family Larry and Diane Ness and $500,000 matching gift from First Dakota National Bank.

The Avera Race supports local patients and families fighting all types of cancer. Depending on location, the Avera Race included runs or walks, including official chip-timed 5K or 10K runs. Numerous people also signed up as sideline supporters or virtual participants.

"At all six locations, it was a beautiful day of hope and inspiration. Once again, we were grateful and humbled by the number of people who came out to support cancer survivors and their families," said Dzenan Berberovic, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Avera. "We thank all those who participated at all levels, our corporate partners, and hundreds of volunteers who made it happen."

Cancer is a life-changing diagnosis. "It's amazing to see people from all walks of life show their care and support," Berberovic said. "Through the years this event has raised nearly $13 million to support cancer patients."

The Avera Race Against Cancer supports patients with all cancer types. Funds support numerous projects, one of which is the Avera Cancer Institute Navigation Center, a round-the-clock source of comfort and support to anyone whose life has been touched by cancer. This 24/7 call center is offered across the Avera system.

Proceeds also go toward lodging or transportation assistance for individuals or families; screening and early detection; genetic testing; specialized equipment and comfort items; New Look, Same You and wig program; complementary therapies like aromatherapy, massage therapy and Arts in Healing; special events like Cancer Survivors Day; grief support for families; and more. All dollars benefit patients and families locally.

Learn about more ways to support Avera at AveraFoundation.org