As part of the 2024 Pat Flynn Spirit of Relay Awards, we are thrilled to announce Truckers Parade Against Cancer (TPAC) as the 2024 Nationwide Team of the Year! Since its founding in 2000 with a goal of raising $10,000 and bringing together 40 trucks, TPAC has grown into a monumental event. In 2024, the parade featured over 300 trucks and raised nearly $200,000 through sponsorships, auctions, and raffles, bringing the lifetime total raised to over $2 million for Relay For Life of Charlotte County.
But TPAC’s impact goes far beyond fundraising. The parade, with trucks proudly carrying banners in honor or memory of loved ones, raises awareness about the importance of cancer screenings, early detection, and ACS resources, particularly in rural communities where access to care can be limited. For many, seeing the trucks and banners serves as an emotional reminder of the collective fight against cancer.
As Sheila Jones, co-founder of TPAC, shared: “Our number one goal is to raise funds for cancer research, and number two is to honor those who are fighting and never forget those we’ve lost.”
Suzy Lawrence, Nationwide Relay For Life volunteer co-lead, surprised the TPAC team with the news of their nationwide recognition. TPAC’s volunteer-driven success exemplifies the heart and spirit of Relay For Life, and we can’t wait to see what this incredible team will accomplish in their 25th year. Watch the full video announcement here or in the video player below.
Congratulations, TPAC, on being named the 2024 Nationwide Team of the Year!
You can view all 2024 Spirit of Relay Awards at RelayForLife.org/2024awards.