Spokes of Hope: Claudia’s Mission with Team ARC in the Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer
As we continue to celebrate the spirit of giving and community involvement leading up to the Tour, we are thrilled to highlight Northern Lights Partner ARC Resources, a returning sponsor and corporate team. With a renewed commitment for the next three-years, ARC is demonstrating their unwavering dedication to the cause.
Last year marked a significant milestone for Team ARC. In their inaugural year, they rallied an impressive 26 riders and raised over $109,000 for the Alberta Cancer Foundation, doubling both of their initial goals. This year, their ambitions are even higher, with a 50-rider team, they are well on their way to surpassing their ambitious $150,000 fundraising goal.
One of the driving forces behind Team ARC’s enthusiasm this year is new co-captain Claudia Lara, a Corporate Planning Analyst at ARC Resources. Claudia’s journey with the Tour began long before she donned the ARC colours, but her connection to the cause deepened over the years, and when ARC became a sponsor, Claudia knew it was her moment to join the team.
“I first heard about the Tour back in 2012. A good friend of mine works at Enbridge and she has been involved with it from the start. She recruited me, and I got to train with Team Enbridge that year!”
Claudia’s passion for the Tour Alberta for Cancer is deeply rooted in her belief in serving others and finding a higher purpose in life. “I believe we should help those who are struggling in whichever capacity we can.” Going through cancer can be a really lonely journey, and Claudia believes that volunteering, donating, and participating in the Tour is a way that she can help. “I hope that by seeing how many people participate in the Tour they feel supported in their journey and know how many people truly care and want to help.”
Giving back is not just a personal value for Claudia; it’s a core part of ARC Resources’ culture. “I feel incredibly proud to work for a company that is doing such amazing things in the community,” she says. ARC’s commitment to various causes, from supporting active and vibrant communities to ensuring healthy, safe, and resilient people, is evident in their support for the Tour.
“When it comes to the Tour, we have had full support from the company in recruiting our team, hosting lunch and learn sessions to get ready for the weekend, and providing all the cycling kit so we can proudly show our ARC colours. Being part of this team enhances the feeling of belonging that we want everyone at ARC to feel, it also gives us a chance to be part of something bigger!”
Claudia eagerly anticipates the Tour weekend, looking forward to the excitement and energy felt throughout the ride and festival. Her advice to new riders is clear and encouraging: “Remember, the Tour is not a race; the purpose of it is to enjoy it, take as many breaks as you need, and there are plenty of supports to help.”
Fundraising can seem daunting, but Claudia believes in the power of community support. “When it comes to fundraising, riders are often surprised at the generosity of others. All we have to do is ask.”
Team ARC Resources, under the spirited leadership of Claudia Lara and other dedicated members, exemplifies the profound impact of community involvement and corporate responsibility. As they gear up for another memorable Tour weekend, we applaud their unwavering commitment to those facing cancer and their inspiring dedication to making a difference.