(Danville) — A group that helps area cancer patients got a massive grant over the weekend.
The State President of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, Billy Shupe, presented the Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association with a 183-thousand dollar donation.
Each year, the conference elects a state President who picks a charity to support. Funds were raised through the year by the Order’s aeries (local chapters) across Virginia.
The local Fraternal Order of the Eagles Piedmont Aerie #4420, located in Sutherlin, has been a longstanding supporter of the Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association. For the past 15 years, the Eagle Riders have organized the annual Dean Ferris Memorial Ride to raise money for the Association.
“Shock is an understatement! We are deeply appreciative of the work of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles and their tremendous generosity,” said Moriah Shepherd, Executive Director of the Danville-Pittsylvania Association. “This contribution will make a tremendous difference for the organization as we
continue to receive new clients daily.”
This donation marks the highest single contribution made to a President’s Charity from the Virginia Conference of the Order of the Eagles. “The aeries put forth a lot of work to make this donation happen,” said Shupe. ” I am thankful for their support towards this charity.”
The Danville-Pittsylvania Cancer Association provides financial and emotional support to over 377 people undergoing cancer treatment in the area. That number has doubled in recent years.