Jennifer Pontikes Honored for Million Meter Challenge Fundraising Effort
News related to:Sorridi Therapeutics · 2 min read
NORTHBROOK, Ill., Oct. 5, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Sorridi Therapeutics staff member Jennifer Pontikes has been honored by the Parkinson's Foundation for her fundraising leadership. Pontikes, along with her husband Rocky Pontikes and fellow Parkinson's Champion Jordan Levin, received the 2026 Top Fundraisers Award during the Parkinson's Foundation Volunteer Leadership Summit, held September 24-26 in Dallas.
The trio joined forces to create the Million Meter Challenge, a virtual community-wide initiative designed to inspire people to get active while raising awareness and funds for the Parkinson's Foundation. The challenge started with rowing but quickly expanded to include power walking, running, and biking. As part of the challenge, the group hosted the Million Meter Mixer, an in-person event sponsored by NeuroFiber, a product from Sorridi Therapeutics.
What began as a competition evolved into something far more meaningful, as the shared effort brought them together. The Million Meter Challenge brought together more than 300 participants and raised over $185,000 for the Parkinson's Foundation.
For Pontikes, the work she does with the Foundation is deeply personal. Diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2023, she became a Parkinson's Champion to raise money for clinical research and support the fight against the disease.
Pontikes is part of the team at Sorridi Therapeutics committed to understanding the impact the gut microbiome has on neurological function and the challenges faced by those living with Parkinson's disease among other neurological diseases.
The Million Meter Challenge returns April 1-30, 2027! Everyone is welcome to participate in the virtual challenge.
The challenge not only raised funds but also fostered a sense of community among participants. Participants were encouraged to share their progress and experiences through social media, creating a supportive network that extended beyond the virtual platform. The event organizers reported that the challenge was a significant success, not only in terms of the financial contributions but also in the emotional support it provided to those affected by Parkinson's disease.
The Million Meter Challenge was a collaborative effort that brought together individuals from various backgrounds and walks of life. Participants ranged from those newly diagnosed with Parkinson's to long-term advocates for the cause. The challenge provided a platform for these individuals to come together, share their stories, and support one another in their journey.
The success of the Million Meter Challenge is a testament to the power of community and the impact that collective effort can have. The event not only raised funds for the Parkinson's Foundation but also raised awareness about the disease and the importance of continued research and support. The challenge's return in 2027 is a clear indication of its enduring legacy and the continued commitment of its organizers to make a difference in the lives of those affected by Parkinson's disease.