Making an Impact: Spotlight on Team Phoenix's Grant      

Each year, proceeds from events and other initiatives of the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation are awarded to programs making a difference in cancer research, treatment, and prevention. In 2024, more than $300,000 was granted to eight programs, and awardees will be highlighted in this monthly email series throughout 2025.  

This year, we are pleased to support the Team Phoenix cancer survivorship program at Aurora Health Care with a $52,814 grant. The 14-week fitness and education program encourages cancer patients and survivors to focus on health and wellness during and after cancer treatment through a triathlon training program.

Team Phoenix was founded in 2011 as a way to empower women cancer patients and survivors by training as a group for a sprint triathlon. Participants work towards the ultimate goal of improving quality of life and longevity through three main pillars – establishing healthy lifestyle habits, gaining the camaraderie of other cancer survivors and connecting with trusted healthcare providers.

Team Phoenix participants complete a ¼ mile swim, 15 or more mile bike ride and a 3.1 mile run/walk. Leslie Waltke, co-founder and co-medical director of Team Phoenix, said it is about changed behavior and improved lifestyles, all while building a strong community.

More than 90% of Team Phoenix alumni have reported that they continue to prioritize physical activity and healthy eating as an important part of their life. The American Osteopathic Association reported that group exercise participants report 12.6% higher mental wellness, 24.8% higher physical wellness and 26% higher emotional wellness than individuals who exercise alone.

Waltke reflected that many participants say cancer is the hardest thing they have had to do. Team Phoenix, however, is the hardest thing they’ve chosen to do.

Team Phoenix is open to females with any type of invasive cancer. It is a program focused on inclusivity with all ages and all fitness levels welcome. There is no limit to when the cancer treatment was completed, and Aurora Health Care and non-Aurora Health Care patients are both eligible. Registration is closed for the 2025 season, but Team Phoenix already has open applications for 2026.

Thanks to the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation’s support, Team Phoenix is able to offer female cancer survivors the opportunity to transition from completing the challenging trifecta of surgery, chemo and radiation – to another difficult, yet incredibly rewarding trifecta of a swim, bike and run.

Our Partners: Nev's Ink

Waukesha-based Nev’s Ink has been a long-time sponsor of the Foundation’s flagship events, including Award of Excellence, Lombardi Golf Classic and Food & Wine. The company’s lifetime contributions total over $500,000, and VLCF is grateful for their partnership and commitment to our mission. 

Above and beyond their sponsorship support, Nev’s Ink hosts an annual Bags Tournament to benefit the Foundation, raising over $50,000 in 2024. Their employees dedicate hours to planning the event and encouraging their vendor network to get involved. Celebrating their 10th year in 2025, Nev’s Ink invites the community to join them in raising funds for VLCF through this family-friendly tournament on Sunday, June 22nd. 

Nev’s Ink founder Gary Nevermann has been on the Board of Directors for VLCF for over 20 years, including two years as president in 2012 and 2013. We recognize the great commitment of Gary and his company, Nev’s Ink for over two decades.

Thank You Volunteers!

The Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation was founded by a group of volunteers back in 1971, who organized the Lombardi Memorial Golf Classic to support cancer patients in Wisconsin after the untimely death of Vince Lombardi from colon cancer. Since then, this volunteer-led organization has raised nearly $25 million in its goal of preventing cancer, caring for those fighting it and finding a cure.

We couldn’t do what we do without our many dedicated volunteers – from our board members and event committee members to the experts on our Medical Advisory Committee and volunteers who staff our annual events, your long-time support and many contributions are so appreciated! 

Join Us: Lombardi Golf Classic Gala

Since 1971, we have raised funds in support of cancer treatment and research in memory of legendary Green Bay Packers head coach Vince Lombardi through the Lombardi Golf Classic.

The 53rd annual Lombardi Golf Classic will be held June 6 & 7 at North Hills Country Club. Star athletes will join competing foursomes in an 18-Hole Tournament with a first prize fit for a champion: 18 holes of golf at Wisconsin’s premier golf destination, the Whistling Straits luxury golf course in Kohler, Wisconsin, with two nights accommodation at the American Club.

Each golfer and their guest are invited to the Golf Gala at the Pfister Hotel on Friday, June 6. This year’s program will pay tribute to Milwaukee Brewers’ legendary broadcaster and longtime Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation supporter, Bob Uecker. A limited number of tickets are available to the public for this unique, one-time event.  

 lombardifoundation.org

A registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.