We are honoured to be longstanding supporters of the Women in Insurance Cancer Crusade (WICC) Ontario, an organization that has been uniting the Canadian insurance industry since 1996 to raise funds and awareness for cancer research, support, and education.
Our commitment to WICC’s mission is demonstrated through consistent sponsorships and active participation in their events, reflecting our dedication to making a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer.
This year, two NYRC team members attended WICC’s 27th Annual Gala, themed “Shaken Not Stirred,” held in Toronto. The event, which has already taken place, was a remarkable success, bringing together industry professionals for an evening of camaraderie, fundraising, and celebration of WICC’s ongoing efforts.
WICC’s Mission and Impact
WICC Ontario is part of a national organization with chapters in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, British Columbia, and recently the Atlantic provinces.
Since its inception, WICC has raised over $20 million nationally for the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS), with a bold goal to reach $25 million by the end of 2025.
These funds support groundbreaking research into breast, prostate, brain, and other cancers, as well as innovative immunotherapy treatments.
WICC’s contributions also bolster CCS programs like the Centre for Cancer Prevention and Support and BC’s Camp Goodtimes, which provides a nurturing environment for children and families affected by cancer.
Key WICC Initiatives
WICC’s fundraising and awareness efforts are driven by a variety of creative and inclusive initiatives that engage the insurance community and beyond. Some of their notable programs include:
- Annual Gala: The “Shaken Not Stirred” Gala, a flagship event, combines entertainment, silent auctions, and networking to raise significant funds. This year’s gala at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto was a testament to WICC’s ability to mobilize the industry for a great cause.
- Relay for Life: Held annually, this event brings together hundreds of participants for a night of fundraising and community. In 2024, the Relay for Life at Stackt Market in Toronto raised nearly $200,000, with close to 300 attendees supporting the CCS through pledges and sponsorships.
- Breakfast for Learning: This initiative focuses on education, raising awareness about cancer prevention and research. NYRC’s involvement in the 2024 committee underscores our commitment to supporting WICC’s educational outreach.
- Dry Feb Challenge: A health-focused fundraiser, Dry Feb encourages participants to abstain from alcohol for the month of February, raising funds and awareness about the link between alcohol consumption and cancer risk. This initiative aligns with WICC’s goal of promoting healthier lifestyles while supporting their $25 million target.
- WICC NeXt Gen: Launched in 2019, this program engages young insurance professionals through networking events, skill-building opportunities, and fundraising activities. The initiative fosters a new generation of advocates for WICC’s mission, ensuring its longevity.
- SpringSpiel and Golf Tournaments: Events like the Southwestern Ontario “SpringSpiel” and annual golf tournaments provide fun, community-driven opportunities to raise funds. These events attract diverse participants and sponsors, amplifying WICC’s reach.
NYRC’s partnership with WICC Ontario reflects our shared values of community, empathy, and action. By sponsoring events, attending fundraisers, and volunteering, we contribute to WICC’s remarkable achievements, including their milestone of raising over $10 million in Ontario alone and $20 million nationally.
Our involvement in initiatives like the Breakfast for Learning committee highlights our dedication to not only fundraising but also educating others about cancer prevention and support.
As WICC continues its journey toward the $25 million goal by 2025, NYRC remains committed to supporting their innovative initiatives.
We encourage others in the insurance industry and beyond to get involved by donating, volunteering, or participating in WICC’s events. For more information about WICC Ontario and their impactful work, visit wicc.ca/on/about/.