SYRACUSE, N.Y.(NCC News) — On My Team16 is a non-profit organization in Syracuse that provides funds and awareness for Pediatric Cancer. The climb for Cancer event was founded in January of 2018 by Jordan Zapisek. Her younger brother was diagnosed with Cancer on May 29, 2014. After his battle, she wanted to find a way to give back to children who went through similar experiences just like him. Zapisek noticed that the Central New York area had a lot of runs and bike ride fundraisers, but not one geared towards the stair climb.
“With the state tower building being the tallest building in Central New York, I thought it would be a great fit for an event like this,” Zapisek said.
Teams will take on the challenge of climbing 20 floors, 338 steps and 331 feet to raise funds for pediatric cancer. Each floor is dedicated to a child, and over the years On My Team16 has connected with over 100 children through this event. Zapisek believes that every dollar counts and their main goal is for the children, parents and caregivers.
Property manager and climber Kimberly Cronk partook in the challenge last year and loved how this organization is supporting pediatric patients locally.
“Two of my best friends have been affected and their children have been affected by pediatric cancer,” Cronk said.
Cronk will help with fundraising this year and participate virtually.
There are currently four teams signed up for this year and registration is still open to all who are interested. This will be the first climb in full effect since COVID, with photo booths and a DJ for the children. The event will take place Saturday November 19 at the State Tower building downtown.