Coach Vince Lombardi is known as a maker of champions. His spirit, enthusiasm and commitment to excellence have touched countless lives – on and off the field. Five National Football League championships are not easily forgotten. But more than a coach, Vince Lombardi was a human being who, on September 3, 1970, lost his most victorious battle when he died of colon cancer. He was fifty-seven.
This event started a process that has changed the lives of thousands of cancer survivors and the lives of those who still face the fight...
In 1971, the first annual Vince Lombardi Memorial Golf Classic was held in Wisconsin with the support of Mrs. Marie Lombardi, members of North Hills Country Club and other civic-minded individuals. The purpose of the Golf Classic was to raise money for cancer research and education in memory of Coach Lombardi.
Today, the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation (formerly known as Vince Lombardi Charitable Funds) is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. The Board of Directors, committee members, volunteers and donors give their time, talent, energy and personal resources toward the goal of defeating cancer in the true Lombardi spirit of excellence.
Since the first Golf Classic in 1971, the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation has grown to include additional charitable cancer fundraising programs such as the Vince Lombardi Award of Excellence Dinner Ball, Lombardi Walk/Run for Cancer, Lombardi Ride to Daylight, Lombardi Food & Wine Experience and the bedrock of our fundraising, Blocks of Granite.
Through the years, the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation has raised over $15 million to help fight cancer. The Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation's mission is to raise funds leading-edge cancer research and compassionate care at the Vince Lombardi Cancer Clinics through eastern Wisconsin. Our work helps patients, supports families and builds cancer awareness across our community.
Support our mission and join in the fight against cancer by making a cancer donation today. Stay up to date with our cancer charity events and volunteer opportunities by joining our email list or following us on Facebook.