****For Immediate Release******

This article was written by: John Michael O'Leary

Komen Awards Pink Ribbon to Advance Relocation Systems

Advance Relocation Systems (0059) in Baltimore is working hard to help the victims of breast cancer. As a Presenting Sponsor for Susan G. Komen for the Cure Maryland, the Atlas agent provides underwriting and services to ensure the success of fund-raising programs.

Now, the Maryland affiliate has recognized Advance with a Pink Ribbon Award, one of two given to sponsors who "display extraordinary commitment to the organization's mission, either through significant contributions during the current year or consistent support for a number of years."

Currently, Advance is in the third of five years as an exclusive provider of logistics solutions. This includes warehousing and transportation services for apparel and related goods that are annually distributed to the more than 30,000 people who participate in the race and related events.

"They were like a gift dropped down from heaven to us," says Race Manager Elaine Foard. "No matter what we ask, they never fail to come through. They're terrific to work with—it's our great pleasure to recognize them with this award."

“We feel it’s important for us to take part in the fight against this disease,” says Nick Travelstead, Vice President of Sales & Marketing. “So we're bringing the quality of Atlas and our resources to help our community and those who are afflicted."

By its sponsorship, Advance furthers the Komen organization’s efforts to eradicate breast cancer through research, education, screening and treatment. Last year, the Maryland race raised over two million dollars. Of funds raised, 75 percent goes to help people in Maryland and 25 percent goes to selected national research. The next race is scheduled for Sunday, October 14.

Nick says the exposure Advance and Atlas gain through a sponsorship is nice, but the focus is really about helping people. “Breast cancer is a killer, and it affects everyone in some way, sooner or later,” says Nick. “We want to do our part to stop it. I encourage other agents and associates throughout the Atlas family to get involved in this worthy cause.”

The Komen Foundation estimates that 178,480 new cases of invasive breast cancer will occur among women in the United States during 2007, and an estimated 40,460 women will die from breast cancer. Women are not the only ones at risk. It is expected that 2,030 men will be diagnosed and 450 men will die of breast cancer this year.