Komen Philadelphia Shutting Down As Part Of Foundation's Reorganization
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Susan G. Komen Philadelphia is shutting down Friday as a result of the foundation's reorganization. In April, Susan G. Komen announced plans to reorganize the foundation's mission and integrate the work of its affiliate networks under one national organization.
It's a bittersweet moment for Susan G. Komen Philadelphia President and CEO Elaine Grobman.
"They are bringing all the affiliates together and the operation will really come from the national offices," she said.
Komen Philadelphia made its first appearance when it hosted the first Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure on Mother's Day in 1991. Over the years the event has attracted up to 100,000 people in the fight against breast cancer.
This year the More Than Pink walk went virtual because of the pandemic.
Komen Philadelphia has raised more than $63.7 million in community grants over the last three decades, which have funded lifesaving programs of the health care partners within the 15 counties it serves, $28 million for breast cancer research, and has funded more than 184,550 free mammograms for women in need within its service area.
"We're very sad but I'm also very grateful for the 30 years of commitment from our community," Grobman said.
While the local office will physically close on Oct. 30, its legacy will live on and the mission of saving lives will continue.
"I'm sad that the office is closing but that doesn't mean that the message of early detection, the support of survivors is going to stop," said Grobman.
Details on how Komen's national headquarters will move forward with services and local events have not been determined at this time.
CBS3's Natasha Brown contributed to this report.
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