3 MIN READ
On October 25th, MetroStar employees gathered at the Reston Town Center to participate in the 2024 Light the Night (LTN) walk, hosted by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) to raise funds for blood cancer research and patient support. This year, MetroStar’s efforts led to a total contribution of $25,390.91, surpassing initial fundraising goals and earning recognition as one of the top corporate teams at the event. Since beginning its partnership with LLS in 2019, MetroStar has raised a total of $207,278 to support the organization’s mission of finding a cure for blood cancer.
A Legacy of Support and Engagement
Each year, MetroStar actively participates in the Leukemia Ball in the spring and runs a dedicated fundraising campaign in the fall leading up to the LTN walk. This year’s campaign began on September 19 and ran for almost four weeks, engaging employees through a company-wide raffle that featured prizes such as tickets to local sporting events. The initiative welcomed participation from both in-person and remote employees, fostering a strong sense of community. Approximately 40 MetroStar employees joined this year’s LTN walk and raffle event.
MetroStar’s CEO, Ali Manouchehri, also serves as a member of the LLS Board of Trustees, further solidifying the company’s commitment to the cause and aligning with its core values of community and compassion.
A Mission Close to the Heart
For David Lee, Senior Director of Defense Operations, the LTN walk was more than just an event; it was a way to honor the memory of his uncle and another close family member who lost their battles to leukemia.
“I was inspired to attend the event because it is an important cause to me,” Lee said. “My uncle passed away from leukemia and his brother as well, who I was very close to.” His words echo the deep personal connections that many MetroStar employees have to the cause.
The significance of Light the Night dates back to 2007 for Pat Pavelko, Talent Operations Manager, when her son’s best friend passed away from leukemia. This profound experience shaped her commitment to supporting LLS.
“Light the Night has actually been a part of our family since 2007,” Pavelko shared. “When my son’s best friend passed away from leukemia, it left a lasting impact. MetroStar’s strong connection to LLS and commitment to the cause is one of the things that really drew me to MetroStar.” Pavelko’s story is a testament to how MetroStar’s community-driven values resonate deeply with its employees.
A Culture of Compassion and Community Support
MetroStar’s participation in the LTN walk is part of its broader CARES (Collaborative Action of Responsible Employees) program, which emphasizes community involvement through Health & Humanitarian efforts, Education & Communities, and Hometown Heroes.
“MetroStar does a lot to give back to the community, and this company just never seems to stop amazing me with what they do.” Pavelko said.
Continuing the Commitment
While the October 25th walk marked a significant milestone, MetroStar’s support for LLS extends beyond the event. Donations for this campaign will be accepted until January 1, 2025, allowing further contributions to support vital LLS initiatives. All donations can be made through MetroStar’s dedicated LLS fundraising page.
MetroStar is proud to stand with LLS and support those affected by blood cancer, proving that when a community comes together, meaningful change is possible.
Help us fuel change! Your donation supports vital blood cancer research and patient care.
