The current president of Friends Fighting Cancer, Dunn resident Robbie Tart, served on the board of directors of the original group for several years. This cause is near to Robbie’s heart, having lost his mother to cancer after a seven-year battle. “This is my passion” he states. In addition to Robbie Tart, Friends Fighting Cancer has a board of directors staffed with twenty-four Harnett County residents. All financial decisions are decided by the board, who meets once a month. “All money raised helps patients within our health care community”, added Robbie. All money used by Friends Fighting Cancer is raised by either donation, including those made in memory or in honor of someone special, or fund-raisers. Friends Fighting Cancer has two major fund-raisers each year, one in the spring and one in the fall. The annual spring fund-raiser is known as “Simply Southern Soirée”, and was held on April 29th, 2017. During this spring event money is raised through corporate sponsorships, donations and participation in the event. Guests attending the “Simply Southern Soirée” are treated to dinner, as well as both silent and live auctions. The hard work of Friends Fighting Cancer continues in the fall as well, with another fund-raiser held then. “Laps for Life”, in memory of Fonnie Godwin, the founder of the event, is a time for locals to come out and walk for the charity. “Many civic groups use this as an opportunity to challenge each other to compete with one another” said Robbie. In addition to meeting financial needs, Friends Fighting Cancer has also been providing high school students who have or had a family member affected by cancer, with college scholarships for the past three years. “The amount of scholarships awarded has increased over the past three years” said Robbie. “Each scholarship given can be used at any college, whether state run or private” he added. All applications submitted for scholarships are reviewed by a committee dedicated to that task, who then forwards their recommendations to the Friends Fighting Cancer board for the final decisions. Robbie Tart wishes to express his gratitude for the support Friends Fighting Cancer has received from residents and businesses and would like to ask for continued support from anyone willing to help. Financial donations are always welcome as well as volunteer help for the fundraising events. Currently the Friends Fighting Cancer website is under construction and is unavailable, however please visit their Facebook Page for more information. Additional information can be received from Friends Fighting Cancer secretary Cindy Robinson by calling 910-890-1519. page 55
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