MONROE — The Justice for a Cure kickoff event, Never Give Up the Fight, in October generated just over $27,000 for cancer research and survivor support. The 9th annual event held at Bartels Co. and Tap begins the non-profits calendar events for raising and awareness and funds for the year.
“It was our biggest event to date,” said Rhonda Bartels of Bartels Co. and Tap. “We had 65 items in our silent auction. The largest, an autographed jersey and photos of Davante Adams, raised $1,000 for Justice for a Cure.”
Founder Joan Kamholz believes the strong support comes from local trust.
“No one is paid here,” Kamholz said. “It’s all volunteer. The money goes directly to help people with cancer.”
Raised in Juda, Kamholz served in both the Green County and Dane County Sheriff’s Office until she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008.
“I was one of the lucky ones,” Kamholz said. “I was going to be fifty and the doctor asked if I wanted treatment or take my breasts. It was really scary, but I took a moment to assess. I decided to put on my big girl pants and go kick cancer.”
Kamholz had her breasts removed and is cancer-free. During her battle, Kamholz believed she and her law enforcement family could do more. This reflection began the journey of Justice for a Cure.
Justice for a Cure aids in funding research for U.W. Carbone Cancer Research Center in Madison and the Mayo Cancer Research Center in Rochester, Minn. The group also helps local people going through their journey though counseling, care packages, ribbons, and get-well cards. The goal is to ensure no one walks alone.
“Everyone has been touched by cancer,” Kamholz said.
Bartels became involved when Kamholz, their neighbor asked them to host an event. At the same time, a family member had just been diagnosed with cancer.
“It’s really humbling,” Bartels said. “If anyone says we don’t have a good community, they don’t get out. If someone is in need, we all pull together. It’s amazing to see what the community does. It’s huge.”
The past two years have cancelled and limited many of those functions. The non-profit has attempted to combat the pandemic effects by doing outdoor events including the Heroes Walk in Browntown and the Tops Down this past summer.
“I’ve had people ask if we can do similar events again this summer,” Kamholz said. “Everyone seemed to really enjoy it.”
Bartels Co. and Tap continue to sell pink shirts and ribbon sponsors throughout the year. The shirts change design annually. This year’s design mirrors the badge of a fire fighter with the words believe, strength, hope, and courage written on the emblem. The sponsor ribbons are displayed during October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month. They can be purchased for a business or in honor of someone’s memory.
Direct donations are accepted as well. Most recently, Kamholz received a $2,000 donation from a deputy friend in a Christmas card.
“In the card, my friend said I know this goes exactly where you say it does,” Kamholz said. “The people I’ve met and the connections I’ve made, the faith people have in me and our organization… it’s a blessing.”
Kamholz notes how impact the Green County support has had for the Justice for a Cure.
“It’s amazing to see such a small community give so much,” Kamholz said. “The support has been non-stop even with COVID-19. It’s so heartwarming.”
Kamholz recalled a waitress who donated all of her tips from the weekend to the fundraiser.
“It absolutely blew me away,” Kamholz said. “She needed that money and yet donated it to others. We are so blessed.”
During events, Kamholz likes to sit with those donating and listen to their stories.
“I try to offer any support I can give,” Kamholz said. “It doesn’t have to be breast cancer. I know so many others going through their own cancer journeys. It can just be nice to talk to someone who knows a little of what you are going through. I believe that’s why we are here on God’s green earth.”
Upcoming events for Justice for a Cure include an Evansville Police Fundraiser at Emma’s Kitchen Jan. 29. The function will be offering soup and sandwiches.
For questions of upcoming events or how to get involved, contact Kamholz at justiceforacure@gmail.com.
