Charity Partner –
Van Andel Institute
Purple Community

van andel

support our charity partner - van andel institute

Every other year, thousands of MINI Cooper owners gather in St. Ignace for a unique celebration — one that brings together passionate MINI drivers, families, and fanatics from across the United States. While their vehicles are uniquely MINI, their dreams are decisively not: MINI on the Mack features an attempt to break the English-held world record for the largest-ever MINI Cooper parade, a goal that also raises funds to build a better, brighter future, one where diseases like cancer and Parkinson’s are a thing of the past.

All funds raised from MINI on the Mack fuel biomedical research and discovery at Van Andel Institute. The Institute is home to more than 500 scientists, educators and staff — each one deeply connected to the work they do by an urgent desire to improve health and enhance lives. VAI relentlessly pursues breakthroughs for diseases like cancer and Parkinson’s, working to develop new diagnosis and treatment tools for the future.

These kinds of breakthroughs are only possible thanks to a committed community — individuals, organizations, businesses, schools and more — all generously donating their time, insight and treasure to ignite the science of the future. You can make your own impact through VAI Purple Community, a community-led awareness and fundraising program which organizes events like MINI on the Mack. Thanks to VAI and Purple Community, MINI on the Mack’s fundraising efforts go further: every dollar raised goes directly to cancer and Parkinson’s research.

MINI drivers and fans attend MINI on the Mack from cities across the United States, combining their passion with the VAI community. Click here for a brief glimpse at previous celebrations. You can also learn more about the event’s impact directly from VAI supporter and self-proclaimed “Miniac”  Jim Cvelbar.

 

About Van Andel Institute

Van Andel Institute sits at the crossroads of science, research, medicine, and education. Founded in 1996 by Jay and Betty Van Andel, and led today by their son, Chairman and CEO David Van Andel, VAI pursues breakthroughs in biomedical research while developing and promoting novel approaches to science education. VAI’s mission extends far beyond its walls and seeks to improve lives across the globe by connecting the brightest minds to enable innovative science and education.

 

About SHARPE and MINI on the Mack

SHARPE is a long-time supporter of Van Andel Institute, sponsoring events and providing support for more than 16 years. The Sharpe family has a deep-held belief in supporting biomedical research, as family members have come face-to-face with Parkinson’s disease. Since then, George Sharpe and George Sharpe Jr. have become leaders in the philanthropic community, pushing for support of biomedical research and science initiatives.

Visit VAI’s Website Below

Van Andel Institute | 333 Bostwick Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 | vai.org