Steps for Stawasz: A Fundraiser for Dave's Family

Join the friends and colleagues of Dave Stawasz in Steps for Stawasz throughout the entire month of April. The premise is simple: participants log as many miles as they can during the month by either walking or running and collect donations along the way. These miles may be accumulated throughout the month and logged in virtually. Additionally, we will also be bringing the community together through an in-person Steps for Stawasz commemorative walk in April 2021.

We will also be hosting a Jeans for a Cause fundraiser in memory of Dave. The event will take place each Friday during the month of March, which is also National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Friday, March 5 is also a “dress in blue” day for colorectal cancer. The Western New England University community (where Dave was a longtime employee) is invited to wear blue jeans on these designated Fridays by donating $5 per Friday, with the proceeds going to the Stawasz family. 

The Inspiration for Steps for Stawasz

Dave Stawasz was a longtime member of the Western New England University community, having worked in Marketing and External Affairs for 16 years, where he most recently served as Assistant Vice President. He was also an accomplished local television news producer with both the WWLP and WFSB news stations, where he was committed to keeping communities informed.

In the summer of 2019 Dave was diagnosed with Stage IV colorectal cancer and has been undergoing rigorous treatment. He battled cancer courageously and gracefully every step of the way. Dave passed away peacefully at home on January 28, 2021.

Dave was a loving family man—the committed husband to his wife of 25 years, Lisa, and the proud father of his two daughters, Paige and Kristen. Both of his daughters are currently enrolled as undergraduate students at colleges in the New England region and there was nothing that Dave valued more than being a part of their small and large life milestones. 

During his cancer battle, Dave taught us so much about courage, perseverance, and love, all of which were pinnacles of who Dave was. As a beloved friend and colleague, we want to honor his distinguished memory as well as support his wife and daughters, who meant everything to him. 

Fundraising

We realize that times are tough now, but every dollar counts. We encourage you to share this fundraising page with your friends and family, on your social media pages, and anywhere else that you can. One share can truly make a difference—we need your help to get the word out!

Virtual Teams

If you wish, you may also form a virtual team (up to ten members) to increase the comradery and accountability. Your virtual team mileage will be totaled (or averaged) and bragging rights are on the line!