Bee Brave is more than just a few events throughout the year to raise money for local breast cancer research. Throughout the last 18 years, it has grown to become a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about raising breast cancer awareness, supporting fighters and honoring those whose battle has ended. Bee Brave is a haven of hope for those who need it, a home in which to share their courageous stories, as well as a place to celebrate the victories and triumphs over breast cancer.
Since 2016, Bee Brave has raised more than $860,000 to support breakthrough breast cancer research in the lab of Dr. Matt Steensma at Van Andel Institute in Grand Rapids.
Bee Brave is different because all of the money raised stays in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
100% of Bee Brave events are organized by volunteers and supported by local business sponsors who are dedicated to finding a cure.
100% of race registration goes directly to breast cancer research at Van Andel Institute.
More about Van Andel Institute:
Van Andel Institute (VAI) is committed to improving the health and enhancing the lives of current and future generations through cutting edge biomedical research and innovative educational offerings. Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to more than 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with a growing number of national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute’s scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson’s and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K-12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology.
