Voices for Victory Celebrates 10 Years Supporting the V Foundation for Cancer Research’s Mission

The anniversary event, held at the Aqua Turf Club, marked a decade of impact fueled by community support, shared purpose, and the unwavering leadership of founder Bob D’Angelo and the Find a Cure Together team. Since its inception in 2015, the annual event has become a cornerstone fundraiser for the Bristol and Hartford region, raising more than $580,000 to support cutting-edge cancer research through the V Foundation.

The evening featured a keynote address from Jamie Valvano, cancer survivor and daughter of V Foundation founder Jim Valvano.

“My father’s legacy is rooted in the belief that when a community rallies behind a single vision, we achieve what once seemed impossible,” said Jamie Valvano. “Seeing the incredible passion of Bob D’Angelo, the FACT team, and everyone who has supported this event over the past ten years is a powerful reminder that when we stand together, we drive progress.”

A highlight of the evening was the surprise announcement of a V Foundation for Cancer Research grant award to Xin Zhou, Ph.D., of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, named “In Honor of Bob D’Angelo, Chairperson, and the FACT Team.” Presented by George Bodenheimer, former Executive Chairman of ESPN and a V Foundation Board Member, the grant recognizes D’Angelo’s extraordinary leadership and the collective dedication of the entire Find A Cure Together team in their decade long commitment to accelerating Victory Over Cancer®.

“Bob leads with humility, heart, and purpose,” said Bodenheimer. “I’ve had the privilege of watching him build this event from the ground up into a decade of meaningful impact. This event not only supports the scientists discovering breakthroughs, it makes a lifesaving difference for patients and their families as well.”

Dr. Zhou, a V Foundation Translational grantee, leads research focused on developing a new cancer treatment that uses the body’s natural iron transport system to deliver therapies directly to tumor cells, potentially increasing effectiveness while maintaining patient safety.

“This funding will enable us to pursue bold ideas in cancer therapy design and develop novel molecules that can significantly improve treatment efficacy,” said Dr. Zhou. “We are deeply grateful to the V Foundation and the Find A Cure Together team for investing in the future of cancer care.”

The night also included a special video message from Hall of Fame broadcaster Dick Vitale and welcomed nearly 150 attendees and local sponsors. After 10 years, Voices for Victory remains a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when passion, teamwork, and purpose come together.

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About the V Foundation for Cancer Research
The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State University basketball coach, ESPN commentator and member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The V Foundation has funded over $458 million in game-changing cancer research grants in North America through a competitive process strictly supervised by a world-class Scientific Advisory Committee. Because the V Foundation has an endowment to cover administrative expenses, 100% of direct donations is awarded to cancer research and programs. The V team is committed to funding the best scientists to accelerate Victory Over Cancer® and save lives. To learn more, visit v.org.

About Find A Cure Together
Find a Cure Together (FACT) is a Connecticut-based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds and awareness for innovative cancer research. Founded in 2015 by Bob D’Angelo. FACT was founded specifically to align with the V Foundation for Cancer Research as an annual fundraising partner. Through the Voices for Victory Dinner, FACT mobilizes the local community to fund innovative research, ensuring 100% of event proceeds go to the V Foundation to fund game-changing cancer research across all cancer types.  For more information on Voices for Victory visit V.org/voicesforvictory.