NORTHBROOK, Ill., July 6, 2017 – Today, Astellas employees volunteered and cheered on 113 wounded-warrior cyclists at the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games on July 6.  The cycling event took place today at the Museum Campus on Chicago’s lakefront in support of our nation’s wounded veterans from all branches of the military.

Astellas’ sponsorship of the Warrior games featured volunteer opportunities, including volunteer registration and docents, family support assistants, course safety, informational support and athlete registration.

“Seeing the many men and women who have bravely served our country compete and demonstrate their strength, resilience and dedication was truly humbling and inspiring,” said Collette Taylor, senior vice president, Human Resources and Facilities. “We are extremely proud to participate and support this year’s Warrior Games.”

Approximately 360 seriously wounded, ill and injured service members and veterans participated in the competition. The wounded warrior athletes represent the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Coast Guard, Air Force and Special Operations Command.

Astellas’ support of the Warrior Games is part of the organization’s commitment to and partnership with local communities as part of its Living Smart^TM social responsibility platform.

To foster connections between employees who are currently serving or have served in United States military, Astellas offers a Military Employee Resource Group (MERG). The MERG provides support for the recruitment, retention and recognition of Astellas employees with military experience. 

“As a soldier with 30 years in uniform and 20 years in pharma, with the last 10 at Astellas, it is important to me to have an employer who values, supports and enables me to fulfill my sense of service and duty while having a successful career,” said Brigadier General Tom Spencer, regional sales manager, New England Specialty. “Astellas’ support of the Warrior Games is an example of the company’s dedication to those who have served, while also making a positive difference in the community.”

Additionally, Astellas honors military veterans and emergency first responders with a Heroes Garden at its Northbrook Headquarters. The 11,431 square foot garden features a fountain, seating areas and distinct sections devoted to each branch of the armed services, along with 290 commemorative brick pavers honoring members of the armed services and first responders communities. Astellas also offers a preferred parking program for U.S. military veterans.  

“The Warrior Games was a tremendous success, in large part, because of the thousands of volunteers who helped out in every aspect of the games,” said Captain Brent Breining, director of the 2017 Department of Defense Warrior Games. “As a Chicagoland native, I’m proud of how the volunteers showed the hospitality and patriotism that Chicago is known for, and let our athletes and families know that their dedication to our country is appreciated.”

The Warrior Games were established in 2010 to enhance the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded veterans and to expose them to adaptive sports.

About Astellas
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