It is easy to become consumed by the fast-paced demands of life, often leaving little time or consideration for contributing to something worthwhile. The concrete industry is no different. Our industry has one speed, FAST. Because of this, it is rare to see the industry slow down to focus on anything other than production and placement.

However, in 2012, Mike and Donna Murray of Decorative Concrete Supply Company in Shawnee, Kansas, envisioned a means of integrating a vital cause into their work; promoting breast cancer awareness, detection, and research. Their vision was to raise awareness and demonstrate the concrete industry’s community commitment through permanent pink concrete installations, showing the industry is actively involved and cares.

Building off the Murrays’ vision to increase breast cancer awareness, Stan & Kyle Poff of Kearney Concrete Company partnered with Turners Body Shop, Miller Signs, and NAPA to outfit their entire ready-mix fleet with the Concrete Cares Cancer Ribbon in the summer of 2013. What began as a localized effort quickly gained momentum; by August, the Poffs collaborated with the Nebraska Concrete & Aggregates Association (NC&AA) to organize a community event. Despite having no formal committee, the overwhelming support from the concrete industry and the local community made the inaugural event at the Kearney Archway a resounding success. This organic movement led to the official formation of “Concrete Cares” in Nebraska, a non-profit dedicated to helping local families in their fight against cancer.

Following the success of their event, organizational founders made some small, but significant changes. First, they rebranded the organization as “Concrete Cares of Nebraska” to focus resources and advocacy efforts within our own communities, and foster localized impacts that might inspire similar state-led initiatives across the country. Secondly, they transitioned the signature color from pink to purple. Although their organizational roots began with breast cancer awareness, they recognized that all cancers sucks. By adopting purple, the color that represents all cancers, members affirmed their commitment to supporting every individual and family affected by any diagnosis; a commitment that has been reaffirmed every year since.