News Summary
AutoNation Inc. organized a 43-car rally in Tampa Bay to support the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation’s ‘Rally Funds the Cure’. The event highlighted pediatric cancer awareness and raised $10,000 along with a donated vehicle to aid NPCF. With over $460,000 donated since 2021, AutoNation’s initiative represents a strong commitment to funding research and supporting families facing pediatric cancer. Participants included young cancer warriors who received comfort bags at local hospitals, emphasizing the urgent need for collaborative efforts in the fight against this disease.
TAMPA BAY — AutoNation Inc. organized a successful 43-car rally in Tampa Bay this June to support the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (NPCF). The event was part of NPCF’s annual ‘Rally Funds the Cure’ initiative, aimed at raising funds and awareness for pediatric cancer research.
Participants of the rally, who were referred to as pediatric cancer warriors, were part of AutoNation’s Drive Pink campaign. During the event, AutoNation presented NPCF with a $10,000 check, along with a new 2025 Chrysler Pacifica Select to be used year-round for their efforts. This significant contribution reflects AutoNation’s long-term commitment, with total donations to NPCF exceeding $460,000 since 2021. The funding, as well as the vehicle donation, was made possible through collaboration with AutoNation Finance and various financial and legal institutions.
The newly donated passenger van will serve as a mobile billboard to raise awareness about pediatric cancer while helping NPCF reduce its reliance on rental vehicles. The statistics highlighted during the rally indicated that 43 children are diagnosed with cancer each day in the U.S., underscoring the urgent need for awareness and research funding.
Rally participants included young cancer warriors like Shayann, Olive, and Vincent, who rode in the NPCF-DRV PNK van during the ride. The event featured stops at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. At each hospital, AutoNation associates delivered ‘Totes for Hope’ comfort bags filled with essential items for pediatric cancer patients, providing support and comfort to the children receiving treatment.
AutoNation’s fundraising efforts extend beyond this event. The company operates a nationwide cash register campaign that invites customers to round up their purchases or donate at checkout. All the funds accrued through this initiative are directed towards pediatric cancer research at local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. This fundraising campaign is ongoing and is set to run until October 16, 2025.
Since launching its DRV PNK initiative, AutoNation has raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes through a combination of funding, resources, and community engagement activities. The initiative demonstrates a strong commitment to assisting those affected by cancer, particularly children who are at risk.
As one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, AutoNation is well-positioned to leverage its national presence in support of such critical causes. The company’s efforts represent a dedicated approach to corporate responsibility, using its resources to make a positive impact on communities across the country.
The rally not only brought together participants and supporters but also served to amplify a vital message about pediatric cancer awareness, encouraging individuals to be proactive in supporting research and treatment efforts for affected children and their families. The continued participation and support from companies like AutoNation play a crucial role in the fight against pediatric cancer, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for young patients nationwide.
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Additional Resources
- Osprey Observer: AutoNation Joins the Drive to Cure Pediatric Cancer
- ABC Action News: Bucs Team Up with NPCF
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: 11th Annual Cut and Color
- WFLA: Buccaneers Cut and Color to Support Child Cancer Research
- Wikipedia: Pediatric Cancer
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
