You may be surprised to learn that over 15 million people globally live with spinal cord injuries, and between 250,000 and 500,000 new cases are reported every year. These injuries result in limitations to daily life and can lead to numerous health complications, such as paralysis, sensory disturbance, breathing problems, and more. Organizations like Wings for Life work to help those who have suffered from spinal cord-related injuries.
Columbia Distributing is proud to take part in the Wings for Life World Run, a fundraiser and awareness activity that raises money for spinal cord injury research. Lindsi Taylor, Director of Communications and DEI Strategy at Columbia Distributing, details the event and what it means to get involved in such an impactful cause.
About the Wings for Life World Run
The Wings for Life World Run is a global event that involves all participants beginning the race at the same time, even across time zones. 100% of all entry fees and donations go directly to support cutting-edge research worldwide to find a cure for spinal cord injuries.
Columbia Distributing discovered the World Run through Red Bull, a beverage brand it distributes. Red Bull sponsors Wings for Life and produces the World Run event.
“We challenged our employees to sign up and participate in the World Run,” Taylor explains. While many employees financially supported the event, some participants did make the 4:30 a.m. start time on May 5th, according to Taylor.
Over 300 Columbia Distributing employees signed up for the event. “Our goal was 300 sign-ups, which was around $10,000 in employee contributions,” Taylor says. “Because of those employee contributions, Columbia matched that. Altogether, we donated around $20,000.”
Why We Became Involved
Columbia Distributing is proud to stand on its core values, one of which is inclusivity. We work diligently to ensure all our team members and those in the communities we serve feel included. Similarly, Wings for Life helps people who’ve suffered a spinal cord injury by increasing visibility and extending a network of support to navigate the challenges of their diagnosis.
“We know that people (with spinal cord injuries) are suffering and want to turn their circumstances around and live a fuller life. This is what the Wings for Life charity is helping them do,” Taylor says. “We chose to get involved with Wings for Life because they really help people and support them, not only in their immediate time of need but creating a support network and system where they can feel more included as humans.”
Continuing the Mission at Columbia Distributing
As a beverage distributor in Washington and Oregon with a passion for giving back, Columbia Distributing is proud to partner with charities like Wings for Life. The Wings for Life World Run is an annual event that we plan to support and participate in every year. For more information or to learn how to donate, contact us today at Columbia Distributing.