Community Corner

'Drivers For Survivors' Reschedules Gala Due To Coronavirus Woes

The Black & White Ball fundraiser for the local cancer-support organization was scheduled April 18 at Castlewood Country Club in Pleasanton.

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PLEASANTON, CA — Drivers For Survivors' Sixth Annual Black & White Ball, originally planned April 18 in Pleasanton, was rescheduled to Saturday, Aug. 14 due to coronavirus concerns, the organization said today.

The gala, a benefit for the cancer-support nonprofit, will be held, as previously planned, at Castlewood Country Club.

"Amid fears of the coronavirus and as we monitor CDC recommendations regarding the COVID-19 outbreak and community spread, we have determined that the best way to ensure the health and safety of our staff, clients, volunteers and community partners is to postpone," said Drivers for Survivors, which was founded roughly seven years ago in the East Bay by a breast cancer survivor.

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"After much discussion, this option of pushing ahead versus canceling, was chosen as the date is far enough ahead that hopefully containment is assured and fears have subsided."

Factoring into the decision were Drivers for Survivors' clients, as the Fremont-based agency, which serves southern and central Alameda County, offers cancer patients free rides to medical treatments.

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"We also felt as an organization that represents a vulnerable population, it was important we took a precautionary stance in this unprecedented climate," the group said.

Drivers for Survivors volunteers provide ambulatory cancer patients living in Fremont, Newark, Union City, Hayward, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Castro Valley, Ashland, Cherryland, Dublin, Livermore and Pleasanton companionship and transportation to cancer-related appointments within a 60-mile radius of ZIP code 94538.

The annual, black-tie-optional gala, with dinner, entertainment and auction, is the organization's signature fundraising event. Follow this link to buy tickets for the August date.

Those who purchased Black & White Ball tickets and cannot attend on the new date can email events@driversforsurvivors.org.

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