THE GREAT RACE OF AGOURA IS MARCH 22, 2014

Mitchell Beer CLU®, ChFC®, CFP®, managing partner of Northwestern Mutual, located in Woodland Hills, Encino and Bakersfield, today announced his firm will serve as Presenting Sponsor of the 29th Annual Dole Great Race of Agoura Hills. The race, which takes place on March 22, expects to draw more than 7,000 runners and another 3,000 spectators.

Comprised of the nation's top, two Half Marathons, The Great Race is a major fundraising event for local schools and other charities.  

In addition, again this year, the Northwestern Mutual group (www.beerfinancialgroup.com) will be fundraising for Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation for Childhood Cancer (www.alexslemonade.org).

"Cancer is the leading cause of death from disease among children 15 and under. Despite this, childhood cancer research is vastly underfunded, receiving less than 5 percent of all cancer research dollars,” said Mitchell Beer, managing partner, Northwestern Mutual. “That’s why the work that Alex’s does is so important. To-date, they’ve raised more than $75 million, which has funded the research critical to finding a cure. We all know someone affected by cancer – and to know that our time, energy and dollars could help a child battling this terrible disease gives our efforts real meaning and purpose.”

The Great Race is made up of six individual races: the noted Pacific and Chesebro Half Marathons, the Old Agoura 10K, the Deena Kastor 5K, the Kids Mile and Family Run. This is Northwestern Mutual’s third year as a major sponsor. Last year, the group raised almost $10,000 for Alex's Lemonade; this year, their goal is to raise $25,000.

To make a donation to help find a cure for childhood cancer, please go to: http://www.alexslemonade.org/mypage/1112731