AutoNation, the leading automotive retailer in the U.S. known as “America’s Most Admired Retailer,” has extended its commitment to cancer awareness and support by surprising a two-time breast cancer survivor with a significant donation.
During an episode of The Drew Barrymore Show on October 24, AutoNation presented Anna Wassman-Cox, a former professional ballerina and founder of the nonprofit Onco-Ballet Foundation, with a $25,000 donation. The funds will aid her organization in providing ballet-based therapeutic programs designed to help cancer patients and survivors reconnect with their bodies, minds, and spirits.
This donation aligns with AutoNation’s DRV PNK initiative, a philanthropic mission dedicated to supporting cancer research, prevention, and care. Since its inception, DRV PNK has raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, making it the cornerstone of AutoNation’s social impact strategy.
Each October, DRV PNK Across America rallies AutoNation associates and customers nationwide to raise awareness and fundraise for cancer research and treatment. Mark LeCompte, AutoNation’s Southern California Market President, emphasized the company’s dedication, saying, “AutoNation’s commitment to cancer awareness, research, and treatment is an important part of our company identity. Through DRV PNK, we proudly support the Onco-Ballet Foundation and other growing organizations that deliver innovative, holistic approaches to healing and wellness for the cancer community.”
The Onco-Ballet Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization based in Irvine, California, was founded in 2023 by Wassman-Cox. A two-time breast cancer survivor, Wassman-Cox established the foundation to create ballet-based wellness programs that alleviate both the physical and emotional burdens of cancer treatment. The organization offers free and low-cost ballet classes to cancer patients and survivors, helping them rebuild strength, flexibility, and confidence while lessening the financial strain often accompanying cancer recovery.
“This generous donation from AutoNation has truly touched my heart and inspired me to keep pushing forward,” Wassman-Cox shared. “It’s a reminder that our work is making a difference, and with this support, we can continue to grow and provide more cancer patients and survivors with the healing power of ballet.”
For over a decade, AutoNation has prioritized cancer research and treatment support through its DRV PNK program. In addition to monetary contributions, the company dedicates resources and volunteer efforts to initiatives that envision a cancer-free future. Through DRV PNK, AutoNation consistently contributes to cancer-related causes, benefiting its associates, customers, and communities.
