It’s not every day that you spot a pink flatbed truck cruising down the road, but “Pinky,” the Bliffert Lumber pink truck, is more than just a vehicle—it’s fulfilling a mission. For every mile it travels, twenty cents goes toward supporting local breast cancer patients and vital research.
The journey began in 2019 when Bliffert Owner Eli Bliffert and Manager Chris Hegeman decided to expand the company’s commitment to breast cancer awareness.
“Bliffert has had a partnership with Susan G. Komen for quite some time, but we wanted to help more and make a unique difference in our community,” said Hegeman. “The idea of having a truck that serves a greater purpose came up, and we reached out to Lakeside International Trucking to see if they could help.”
Lakeside International Trucking was able to help Bliffert Lumber bring that vision to life. In addition, the trucking company agreed to contribute a donation match up to $2,500.
“When we first learned about Bliffert’s commitment to the Susan G. Komen organization, we knew we had to get involved,” said Lakeside International Trucks Director Cassidy Sommer. “Over the past five years, our collaboration has not only raised awareness but has also united our community in the fight against breast cancer.”
Since hitting the road, the pink truck has helped Bliffert Lumber and Lakeside International Trucks raise $21,547. This year, they proudly presented a $6,060 check to Susan G. Komen.
“We are so humbled and appreciative of the support provided by these two generous local businesses,” says Komen Wisconsin Executive Director Nikki Panico. “Their big pink truck is absolutely a community hero!”
This year, Bliffert Lumber also developed an employee-driven donation campaign to help raise funds. “We had a total of 33 team members sign up to participate in the More Than Pink Walk, and another 45 contributed funds toward the campaign,” shared Bliffert’s Marketing Communications Specialist Eloissa Heigl.
Unfortunately, the 2024 walk was canceled due to inclement weather. Nevertheless, Bliffert’s team was able to contribute an additional $2,770 in employee and community donations.
According to Development Director Robin Luther, Komen’s work in the community is only possible because of the businesses, organizations, teams, and individuals who join in the local fight against breast cancer.
“We can’t overstate our appreciation for the long-term support Bliffert Lumber and Lakeside International Trucks have provided to Susan G. Komen in Wisconsin. Their enthusiastic fundraising, team building, and sponsorship combine to make a meaningful impact in our community,” said Luther.
While Breast Cancer Awareness Month ended on October 31st, Bliffert Lumber and Lakeside International Trucks will continue to have Pinky travel throughout Wisconsin year-round.
“This is just what we do at Bliffert. We love our community, and we want to give back,” explained Hegeman. “Breast cancer has affected many of us. We’re proud to give back and encourage the community to do the same if they are able.”
Community members interested in supporting the Susan G. Komen Foundation can learn more by contacting Robin Luther at rluther@komen.org.
