PHILADELPHIA, PA — A 60-year-old retired postal worker, Scott Freitag, who is currently battling stage IV prostate cancer, has been recognized with the Cash, Sweat & Tears Award by the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum for his exceptional fundraising efforts. Freitag, along with his wife Katy, embarked on an ambitious 11,000-mile bike journey across all U.S. border states last June to raise funds and awareness for ZERO Prostate Cancer.
The award, sponsored by Blackbaud, a leading cloud software company that powers social good, is given annually to the most inspiring volunteers in the nonprofit sector. The Freitags were nominated by ZERO Prostate Cancer and chosen from a pool of numerous nominations made by nonprofit organizations. The award was presented at the Forum’s annual conference.
Freitag’s fight against prostate cancer has fueled his extraordinary campaign. Despite undergoing hormone therapy and radiation treatment, he has pedaled more than 6,500 miles across 28 state lines and raised nearly $150,000 for the cause. His wife Katy accompanies him, following in the camper they now call their home away from home.
Peer-to-peer fundraising, the practice that Freitag and his wife have engaged in, involves supporters of a nonprofit organization participating in activities like walks, bike rides, or other real or virtual challenges. These supporters then ask their network of friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues for donations. This approach raises billions of dollars annually for thousands of nonprofits nationwide.
“Amazing people like Scott & Katy Freitag are the heart and soul of peer-to-peer fundraising,” said David Hessekiel, President of the Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum. “We are proud to honor the Freitags as a symbol of the millions of volunteers who energize organizations with their contributions of time and talent.”
Courtney Bugler, President and CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer, also expressed admiration for the Freitags’ efforts. “We’re deeply inspired by Scott and Katy’s dedication to raising awareness and funds for prostate cancer during Scott’s own personal battle with the disease,” Bugler said. “His nationwide cycling journey to shine a much-needed light on the importance of early detection reflects remarkable resilience and a commitment to making a difference.”
Bugler added, “Scott and Katy are true cause heroes who are saving lives with their advocacy. As Scott continues to pedal across the country with Katy by his side, we encourage everyone to join us in cheering them on and supporting their fundraising efforts to help more men and families.”
Natalie Cole, Senior Manager at Blackbaud, praised the Freitags at the award luncheon. “Blackbaud® is honored to be back presenting the Cash, Sweat, & Tears Award at Peer-to-Peer Professional Forum again this year and we could not have dreamt of more deserving honorees than Scott & Katy Freitag,” she said.
The Freitags plan to complete their fundraising trek by this summer. Contributions to their effort can be made via their website, www.milesformoney.org. Their extraordinary journey serves as an inspiring example of resilience and dedication in the face of adversity, demonstrating the significant impact that individuals can make in the fight against diseases like prostate cancer.
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