By TIM HUNDT
CHASEBURG, Wis. – The Chaseburg Area Cancer Walk organization recently concluded a successful 2025 fundraising campaign that generated significant financial support for regional medical facilities. The grassroots nonprofit announced that their efforts last year resulted in tens of thousands of dollars being distributed to local oncology departments to assist patients directly.
Monty Gilbertson, a representative for the Chaseburg Area Cancer Walk, highlighted the specific impact of the $80,000 raised during the 2025 season.
“We donated the $80,000 that we raised last year to Vernon Health in Viroqua, Mayo, Emplify by Gundersen to use locally in their oncology departments for cancer patients needs,” said Gilbertson. “The funds will be used for warming blankets, gas cards, accommodations, and anything else the patients may need.”
The organization has operated for more than two decades as a movement rooted in compassion and action. The group differentiates itself from national organizations by ensuring that every dollar raised stays within the community to support neighbors and local hospitals. The volunteer committee is comprised of individuals who have personally faced cancer or supported loved ones through the illness.
Gilbertson noted that the group is now shifting its focus to an active 2026 schedule.
The upcoming fundraising season begins with a partnership with Westby High School for “Fight Cancer Night” on Friday, Feb. 13. The event will feature basketball games, basket raffles and food at the Westby High School Fieldhouse.
“The Westby High School Girls Basketball teams along with the Chaseburg Area Cancer Walk invite you to join in this fundraising evening,” said Gilbertson. “Here is another event that raised over $9,000.00 last year for us.”
The organization also plans to host its “Best Ever” Chickenque and Bake Sale series throughout the spring. These drive-through and eat-in dinners will take place at the Chaseburg Village Hall on Feb. 15, March 8 and April 12, 2026.
These spring fundraisers lead up to the organization’s primary event later in the year. The 21st Annual Chaseburg Area Cancer Walk is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, at Chaseburg Village Park.
The September event will feature a variety of community activities including food trucks, live music, a silent auction and a bucket raffle.
“There will be food trucks and a variety of soups, plus activities that include arts & crafts vendors, a live dessert auction, silent auction, bucket raffle, wine cork raffle, bounce house, face painting, live music, raffle drawing, and much more,” said the organization in its 2026 event guide. “We will also be collecting food for the local food pantries.”
The nonprofit emphasizes that these efforts provide essential resources such as lodging for families during treatment and wigs for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Residents interested in donating or joining a team for the 2026 events can find more information through the organization’s website.
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