EC Wisconsin News

Unity Hospice has received a $20,000 donation from the Jerry Parins Cruise for Cancer, marking the tenth year in a row the organization has benefited from this event. The funds will help Unity continue to provide hospice care, palliative care, and grief support to people and families throughout Northeast Wisconsin.

The Jerry Parins Cruise for Cancer is an annual motorcycle ride that raises money for cancer patients and their families in Northeastern Wisconsin. At a recent event held at Vandervest Harley-Davidson, the organization distributed a total of $185,000 to eleven local cancer support organizations. Since it began 21 years ago, the Cruise for Cancer has contributed $3 million to area groups.

“We at Unity are grateful to Jerry Parins, Vandervest Harley-Davidson, the Packerland Harley Owners Group and the Green Bay Police and Fire Departments, as well as all event participants, for raising money to support families with cancer. The $20,000 awarded to Unity from the 2025 Jerry Parins Cruise for Cancer helps ensure patients and families who are underinsured or lack financial resources can receive the dignified, holistic care they deserve” says Unity Development Director Jenifer Allen.

Individuals interested in supporting Unity’s CommUnity Care program—which provides end-of-life care regardless of ability to pay—can contact Development Director Jenifer Allen at 920.338.1111.

Unity is a not-for-profit healthcare provider serving Northeast Wisconsin with services such as nonmedical home care, palliative care, hospice care, and grief support. It works with local nursing homes, assisted-living facilities, and pharmacies to coordinate patient care across different settings. As a collaborative effort among Emplify Health by Bellin, HSHS St. Mary's Hospital Medical Center, and HSHS St. Vincent Hospital, Unity offers inpatient hospice services at seven area hospitals.

Over its history, Unity has launched several firsts in Wisconsin: it started the state’s first palliative care program in 2002; opened the region’s first hospice residence in 2007; created the only Grief and Education Center in 2021; and began offering pediatric hospice services in 2024. More information about their programs is available at https://unityhospice.org/palliative-care or by calling (920) 338-1111.