Avenue 912 was filled with the sounds of new wave and classic rock as Step Up 4 Inc. hosted its annual concert to raise funds for breast cancer patients in Northwest Indiana. The event, which featured the Cars tribute band "The Electric Cars," was part of a group effort by the organization to provide direct financial support to individuals facing breast cancer and other forms of cancer.
Step Up 4 Inc., a nonprofit organization, has been making a difference for over 11 years, primarily focusing on supporting individuals battling breast cancer, though they extend their help to those affected by other cancers. With help from CEO Bill Maio, the organization hosts various fundraising events. The money raised goes directly to people in need, rather than getting lost in research or administrative costs.
“People reach out to us directly, telling us they’re struggling to pay bills, afford chemo, or cope after a double mastectomy,” Maio said. “All the funds raised tonight go directly to people who need it most."
The event featured performances by Don Baron and Alt-Ra-wave, opening with '80s alternative tunes, followed by the headlining act, The Electric Cars. The highlight of the night came when it was announced that the band would match the total funds raised, with one band member’s company also pledging to match the donation.
“Our partners at Methodist Hospitals’ Breast Care Center make sure our contributions go directly to prevention efforts,” said Stand Up 4 Inc. Vice President Jason Repass. “We help cover the cost of mammograms for those who can’t afford them. It’s not just about treating cancer after the fact; it's about prevention as well."
The concert drew supporters from across the region, many of whom were touched by the organization’s dedication to helping cancer patients on a personal level.
Methodist Hospitals' Breast Cancer Center, one of Step Up 4 Inc.'s partners, was also present at the event. Known for offering advanced breast cancer care, Methodist Hospitals provides a full suite of diagnostic and treatment services, including 3D mammograms, ultrasounds, and MRI biopsies. Through its “No Woman Left Behind” mission, the center also provides free screening and diagnostic services to women and men who meet financial assistance guidelines.
"Prevention is key, and Methodist Hospitals has been a great partner in ensuring that people in our community get access to essential services, even if they can’t afford it," Repass said. "We pay for their mammograms, ultrasounds—whatever they need for early detection and prevention."
The organization's 11-year journey originally began with a tragedy.
"One of my friend's daughters was tragically shot and killed at 15, and our group raised $25,000 for violence prevention,” Maio said.
However, the loss of his mother to breast cancer led the organization to shift focus.
"Breast cancer has touched many of our lives in some way," Repass said.
He then recounted the mastectomies two of his aunts underwent. Within their close-knit group, they share similar life-altering stories, making the cause deeply personal for Maio and Repass.
For Step Up 4 Inc., it's not about financial gain, but about making a real difference in people's lives. Maio remembers a story from last year’s event, where a woman they had helped took to the stage, overwhelmed with emotion. Maio stressed the importance of moments like these where their mission is perfectly reflected.
As Step Up 4 Inc. continues to expand its outreach, Maio and his team are planning future events, including a possible Halloween-themed gathering for families affected by cancer. But no matter the theme, the goal remains the same: helping cancer patients in need, one event at a time.
For more information about Step Up 4 Inc., or to donate, visit their website at stepup4inc.org.
To learn more about Methodist Hospitals' Breast Cancer Center, visit methodisthospitals.org.
