In honor of World Cancer Day tomorrow, February 4, Holland America Line has announced that to date, guests and employees have raised over $5 million for cancer support. The money raised has come about through the company’s “On Deck” programming that began in 2006, and benefits six cancer organizations in the US, Canada, Australia, the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK.
On Deck for a Cause invites guests to participate in a noncompetitive 5k walk on every sailing aboard each of the line’s 14 ships, with proceeds going to the American Cancer Society, Canadian Cancer Society, Cancer Council Australia, Cancer Research UK, Deutsche Krebshilfe (German Cancer Aid), and KWF Kankerbestrijding (Dutch Cancer Society). Since its beginning, over 385,000 participants have joined over 5,300 walks onboard.
Guests are invited to donate $20 to the Holland America Line Foundation, and on a sea day they can join in the 5k around the ship’s decks. Guests can choose to walk less than the 5k distance, or not walk at all and just donate. Participants receive an On Deck for a Cause T-shirt, wristband, and a reception following the walk.
To celebrate the $5 million milestone, an extra-special reception will be held on each ship following the 5k this week, with the traditional lemonade as well as a champagne cocktail, cake, appetizers, and music.
