The Illini 4000 for Cancer is a nonprofit organization based out of the University of illinois that aims to spread awareness about cancer’s impact on American life. We raise funds for cancer research and send students on a cross-country bike trip every summer. Along the way, students interview cancer patients and survivors.
On Oct. 28 and Oct. 29, members of the Illini 4000 for Cancer will cycle on stationary trainers from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to raise awareness for the fight against cancer. The event will take place on the main quad at the Anniversary Plaza, located on the South side of the Illini Union.
The event serves as a tribute to and a memorial for those who have been affected by cancer. The vigil will showcase various media forms of the Portraits Project, and Illini 4000 initiative that attempts to document how cancer impacts diverse populations across the country. Passers-by will be able to share their experiences with cancer as a contribution to the Portraits Project.
The organization will accept donations for the 2011 ride with proceeds benefitting the American Cancer Society and Camp Kesem. Various tshirts and organizational material will be available for purchase. There will also be a memorial wall where supporters can write a message. There is a suggested $1 donation to write on the memorial wall.
Last Spring, The Illini 4000 cycled for 24 consecutive hours. Due to an increase in crimes on campus, the organization did not receive approval to cycle overnight as before and is, thus, splitting up the cycling into two blocks of 12 hours.
Visit www.illini4000.org for more information about the organization.