Big Dig Colorado Raises Over $146,000 for Pediatric Cancer Research
Digging for a Cure: Big Dig Colorado Raises Over $146,000 for Pediatric Cancer Research
The annual Big Dig Colorado event, held on September 9, successfully raised $146,677 to support the American Cancer Society’s pediatric research initiatives. With over 1,800 attendees, this unique festival allowed children and families to operate heavy machinery while contributing to the fight against childhood cancer.
How Does the Big Dig Support Our Local Community?
At 4Rivers Equipment, we believe that our responsibility as a John Deere dealer extends far beyond the job site. The Big Dig Colorado event, presented by IHC Scott, provides a "one-of-a-kind" experience for pediatric cancer patients, survivors, and local families. By transforming a construction site into a playground, we help create lasting memories while funding life-saving research.
Our partnership with the American Cancer Society is built on a shared mission to improve lives. The funds raised at this year's event contribute to 44 active childhood cancer research grants totaling $26 million—a number that continues to grow thanks to the incredible generosity of our Colorado neighbors.
Why Is 4Rivers Equipment Involved in the Big Dig?
We’ve been humbled to support this cause for the last six years. For us, it’s not just about providing the machines; it’s about the people behind them. Our passion for the construction industry is perfectly matched by our desire to support the families who keep our communities strong.
How we support the mission from start to finish:
- Hands-On Experience: We bring operating equipment for kids to navigate under supervision.
- Static Displays: We provide massive, "marvel-worthy" machinery for families to explore and photograph.
- Volunteer Leadership: Our employees sit on the volunteer committee, helping with event promotion and ticket sales.
- Sponsorship Recruitment: We leverage our industry relationships to bring in additional sponsors and drive total donations.
A Record-Breaking Year for Growth and Impact
This year marked a significant milestone as the Big Dig Denver and Big Dig Northern Colorado merged into one massive event. The results were unprecedented, seeing record growth in both attendance and total funds raised.
"When your passion meets a good cause, it's always a win-win for everyone," says 4Rivers Equipment CEO John Shearer. This sentiment is echoed by our General Manager, Danny Bratton, who notes that our employees step up every year to make up a significant portion of the event’s volunteer force.
Looking Forward: Continuing the Fight in 2024
As we celebrate the success of the 2023 event, our eyes are already on the horizon. The 4Rivers team is committed to making the 2024 Big Dig even more remarkable. We will continue to provide the equipment, the people, and the heart necessary to ensure that every dollar raised goes toward finding a cure for pediatric cancer.
Ciera Wills, Senior Development Manager at the American Cancer Society, notes that 4Rivers goes "above and beyond" on event day. We take that compliment to heart and plan to push even harder next year to support our local families and researchers.
Common Questions About Big Dig Colorado (FAQ)
What is the Big Dig Colorado?
The Big Dig is a family-friendly festival where attendees of all ages can operate large construction equipment and boom lifts in a safe, supervised environment to raise money for charity.
Where do the proceeds from the Big Dig go?
All funds raised are donated to the American Cancer Society specifically to fund pediatric cancer research grants and support initiatives for childhood cancer survivors.
Can children really operate heavy machinery at the event?
Yes! With the help of trained operators and sponsors like 4Rivers Equipment, kids have the chance to sit in the operator's seat and move dirt with stationary machines and boom lifts.
How has 4Rivers Equipment contributed over the years?
Over the last six years, we have provided equipment, sponsored event activities, recruited new donors, and provided a steady stream of volunteers from our local dealerships to ensure the event's success.
Want to join us in supporting this incredible cause next year? [Sign up for our community newsletter] to stay updated on event dates and volunteer opportunities for Big Dig 2024.
