Volunteer Spotlight: Kristine Bolinger
April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and we’re happy to share stories and insights from some of our volunteers across the country. Kristine Bolinger is the President of the Colonial Skating Club of Pennsylvania. The Club has held four Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer events and raised over $20,000 total.
What inspired you to volunteer with CARES? Do you have a personal connection to cancer that makes CARES meaningful to you?
I heard about CARES years ago and attended an event. I knew then I wanted my club to participate in this important project!
I lost a long-time friend to breast cancer years ago after she had just had her second baby, and shortly after that, my mother-in-law lost her battle with breast cancer as well. Research for new treatments and therapies is so important and is a cause I’m proud to support.
Can you share a memorable experience, event, or moment from your time volunteering?
My most memorable experience volunteering for CARES happened just a few weeks ago! My club hosted our 4th annual Sk8 to Elimin8 Cancer Frozen 5K and raised over $8,000.00 - our most yet! We dedicated the afternoon to a fellow hockey dad and friend. To see the family so impressed with the donations and support was a wonderful day for me as a volunteer organizing the event!
How has being involved with our foundation changed your perspective on cancer research? How do you feel knowing you’re supporting life-saving research?
I feel more strongly than ever that CARES contributions to cancer research are just amazing! I just read about a new therapy for colon cancer that the Scott Hamilton’s CARES foundation funded so I know without a doubt our contributions are supporting life-saving research!
What would you say to someone considering volunteering with CARES?
For anyone looking to volunteer with CARES, it is a heartwarming and great feeling organizing and hosting an event like this! Being a part of something that is important and providing to others who are trying to navigate cancer will make you feel like you are right there with a helping hand! I absolutely love being a part of the CARES foundation and look forward to it every year!