Emily Loffredo (Philanthropy Officer, Concord Hospital Trust), Linda Lorden (President, the Merrimack), Pamela Puleo (Chief Advancement Officer, Concord Hospital Trust)
Runners take your mark! The 20th Annual Rock ‘N Race returns to the State House in downtown Concord with Merrimack County Savings Bank (the Merrimack) as the presenting sponsor for the 14th year in a row. The iconic road race is a main fundraising event for Concord Hospital’s Payson Center for Cancer Care, a cause to which the Merrimack has contributed nearly $400,000 to over the years.
The 20th Annual Rock ‘N Race kicks off Thursday, May 19th and features live music, food, and fun giveaways for the whole family to enjoy. The pre-race ceremony begins at 5:30 pm with the starting bell to ring promptly at 6:00 pm for the thousands of registered runners and walkers.
“We’re grateful for the opportunity to participate as a presenting sponsor for the 20th Annual Rock ‘N Race as it makes its return to the State Capitol,” said Linda Lorden, President of the Merrimack. “This event brings us together to celebrate and honor everyone who has been touched by cancer. Support of the race ensures that quality cancer treatment and programs continue to be available for anyone in need. It’s an important event and incredible cause that we are grateful to be part of.”
All proceeds from the Rock ‘N Race support the Payson Center for Cancer Care’s HOPE Resource Center which provides critical services and financial assistance for cancer patients, survivors, and family members. With more than 6,000 annual participants, the Rock ‘N Race is the largest 5K race/walk north of Boston, raising more than $5 million since its first event in 2003.
“We so appreciate the Merrimack’s enduring support of our Payson Center through the Rock ‘N Race,” said Pamela Puleo, Chief Advancement Officer at Concord Hospital Trust. ”The generosity shared by both our corporate supporters and community members funds the special programs and services for patients and families at the HOPE Resource Center.”
As one of Concord Hospital’s five centers of excellence, Payson Center for Cancer Care offers a comprehensive array of services, including cancer-related specialists, diagnostic technology, radiation, and medical oncology, surgery, rehabilitation, outreach, screening, early detection programs, spiritual care, and financial counseling, among many other resources and amenities.