Local Fire Department Creates Unique Geaux Pink Event

Raises funds for Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center

(Baton Rouge, La.) Did you know real firefighters wear pink? At Livingston Parish Volunteer Fire Department District 5 they do to help raise awareness and funds to support the fight against breast cancer. Selling and wearing pink fire helmets during October 2014 was the department’s first annual Geaux Pink fundraiser benefitting Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “We asked local businesses to sponsor special helmets to raise money and awareness for breast cancer, and we are thrilled with the outcome,” said Joe Koczrowski, fire chief. “We are so appreciative and grateful to our participants. We will absolutely hold this event again next year.” As part of the purchase of a helmet, the participating company’s name was printed on the front shield. The firefighters wore the helmets, which met official safety requirements, on all calls throughout the month of October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. When not actively in use, the distinctive helmets were displayed on the front of the fire truck to help promote sales to other companies. “Even if the firefighters were just out to lunch or at an event, they would leave the pink helmet on their dashboard to keep promoting both the business donor and breast cancer awareness,” explained Chad Robinson, assistant fire chief. One hundred percent of the funds raised through this Geaux Pink event will help support early detection and screening programs and raise breast cancer awareness throughout the Greater Baton Rouge area. “Geaux Pink is a fun and meaningful way to raise awareness about a disease that affects so many while raising money to help fight it,”said Kaitlyn Guerin, associate development director, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “The fun and creative ideas our Geaux Pink supporters create are endless. No matter how small or large the event, when combined with others, it can truly make a difference.” Fire Chief Koczrowski presented a check to the Cancer Center on Dec. 4 with representatives of participating businesses in attendance. Supporters included Big Mike’s Sports Bar & Grill; Cornerstone Custom Cabinets; Gulf Coast Hydro; Hooters; Magnificent Monograms; Maria’s Mexican; MJ Networking; Premier Credit Union; Tim Kinchen Fine Homes LLC. Photo Cap: Livingston Parish District 5 Fire Chief Joe Koczrowski presents a Geaux Pink check to Kaitlyn Guerin, Cancer Center associate development director, as representatives of donor companies look on. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is the most comprehensive cancer center in Louisiana offering patients the convenience of receiving high-quality, advanced care close to home.