Supporting the Shades of Pink Foundation

development on April 30, 2026

Supporting the Shades of Pink Foundation

Lakes Transportation was founded by Susan Koehler Gross, a Michigan native, entrepreneur, and two-time breast cancer survivor. After facing her own diagnosis with grace and resilience, Susan built Lakes Transportation not just to serve her community, but to uplift it. She saw firsthand how transportation challenges weigh on patients during treatment, and she created a company rooted in compassion: one where every ride carries a larger purpose and a portion of every fare supports local cancer organizations.

So when the Shades of Pink Foundation announced the Walk at the Zoo fundraiser, Susan didn't hesitate. Supporting this fundraiser is exactly what Lakes Transportation's community giving mission is about, and for Susan, it's deeply personal.

About the Shades of Pink Foundation

The Shades of Pink Foundation (SOPF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a singular, life-changing mission: to reduce the financial stress placed on individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment in Southeast Michigan. Founded on the principle that no person should ever forgo life-saving medical treatment due to financial hardship, SOPF steps in where insurance and government programs fall short.

To date, SOPF has distributed over $3.5 million in direct assistance to more than 1,600 individuals and their families across the region. Rather than issuing checks that might be spent elsewhere, SOPF pays bills directly, including mortgages, utilities, insurance premiums, and childcare, giving patients the peace of mind they need to focus entirely on recovery.

Learn more at shadesofpinkfoundation.org , and consider making your own breast cancer donation to this incredible cause.

Cheering for the Kirsten Kicked Cancer Team

Our donation specifically supports the Kirsten Kicked Cancer team, a group of fighters, survivors, and supporters who walk each year in honor of someone who faced breast cancer with courage and determination. Teams like Kirsten Kicked Cancer are the heartbeat of the Walk at the Zoo: they raise awareness, funds, and spirits, all in a single day.

Join Us — How You Can Help the Kirsten Kicked Cancer Team

Our donation is one part of a larger effort, and community giving doesn't stop with one company's contribution. The Walk at the Zoo on Saturday, April 25, 2026 is open to everyone, and every person who shows up, donates, or shares the word helps the Shades of Pink Foundation reach more families in need.

A Walk at the Zoo: Event Details

Saturday, April 25, 2026 • Open to the public • Southeast Michigan

To register and for full event information, visit: shadesofpinkfoundation

Thank You, Shades of Pink Foundation

From Susan and the entire team at Lakes Transportation, we want to thank the Shades of Pink Foundation, for organizing the Walk at the Zoo and for the quiet, essential work SOPF does every single day. To the Kirsten Kicked Cancer team: we see you, we support you, and we are cheering for every step you take.

This breast cancer donation reflects the mission Susan founded Lakes Transportation to fulfill—showing up for the people and causes that make Southeast Michigan a place worth calling home. Lakes Transportation community giving is not a one-time gesture. It is the reason we are here.

Ready to make a difference?

Join us in supporting the Shades of Pink Foundation. Register for A Walk at the Zoo on April 25, 2026 or donate directly to the Kirsten Kicked Cancer team at: shadesofpinkfoundation.org