Help Feed Hungry Families in Central Ohio by Donating to Team Cleary’s Food Drive January 28th thru February 28th!
Do you know where your next meal is coming from? According to the Mid-Ohio Food Collective’s website, one in five Ohioans is food insecure. Food insecurity can happen to anyone. It could be your coworker, friend or neighbor.
Since 2012 Team Cleary has collected food and funds for those in our community who need a helping hand. Our 2024 holiday charity funds collection yielded a $500 cash donation to MOFB providing meals for 1,200 people facing food insecurity in our community. This year, we are again partnering up with Mid-Ohio Foodbank and hosting a food drive at our office and design studio from January 28th through February 28th.
There are 2 convenient ways to participate:
Bring your non-perishable food items to our office and design studio, 989 Old Henderson Rd, Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, January 28th through February 28th.
Did you know for every $1 donated to MOFB, they are able to provide $4.50 worth of groceries? That’s 2.5 meals. Plus, every pound of food donated is equal to 1 meal. 92.2% of all funds raised go to program support including food acquisition and distribution.
List of Essential Food Items:
Chili w/ Beans
Canned Vegetables
Canned Meat
Soup w/ Vegetables
Peanut Butter
Canned Fruit (in juice / light syrup)
*NOTE: We are unable to accept perishable, homemade, home-canned, and outdated food, bulk packages weighing more than five pounds, or food in glass containers.
Mid-Ohio Food Bank Stats & Facts
Mid-Ohio Food Collective is the largest hunger relief organization in central and eastern Ohio. They work to meet the needs of our hungry neighbors by serving 20 counties providing more than 170,000 meals each day! The majority of the distributions are through their network of 680 member agencies. Their mission is to end hunger one nourishing meal at a time while co-creating communities where everyone thrives.
Our Clients are Awesome Supporters
2020 food drive results!2020 Clients brought donations to their contract meeting.
For 4 years, the Team Cleary Cyclers peloton has been riding, raising, and volunteering to create an incredible impact on cancer research. All funds raised for Pelotonia support innovative cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute (OSUCCC – James).
Joe Apgar, Pelotonia President, is continually inspired by George Cleary’s leadership in the community. Upon hearing that Team Cleary Cyclers reached the $250k fundraising milestone, Joe shared, “On behalf of the Pelotonia Staff and Board, OSUCCC – James, and countless cancer patients who will benefit from the research you’re funding – Thank You!”
Last month (Friday October 13, 2023), George & Team Cleary Cyclers hosted a Push for Pelotonia fundraiser that raised over $11,000 thru tickets sales, silent auction, wine pull, 50/50 raffle and donations.
2023 Push for Pelotonia fundraiser 10-13-23
George Cleary, Team Cleary Cyclers Captain & Owner of The Cleary Company sends his gratitude and heartfelt thanks to all who attended, volunteered, sponsored and donated to this great evening of FUNdraising. “My plan for creating this event was to give a final push in fundraising for Team Cleary Cyclers and help the younger members of our peloton reach their goals, but with the commitment and hard work of so many generous souls we were able to surpass our target amount of $8-10k. Thank you!”
George Cleary – My Pelotonia
My first Pelotonia was 14 years ago and it’s been, without a doubt, the BEST 2 days of my year, every year. It is the most enthusiastic, positive experience that I have ever been part of. My brother-in-law, Chip Greenlee, encouraged me to join him and for several years we both rode with Stephanie Spielman’s Team of Hope Peloton. Chip and his wife, Sara, were great friends of Stephanie and her husband, Chris. The loss of such a strong-willed cancer survivor and friend encouraged Chip to do his part and he encouraged me to do the same.
I have optimism and hope to find better treatments and ultimately a cure! A lot of that enthusiasm is due to the leadership efforts and hard work of the Pelotonia staff but also so many more – the dedication of doctors, researchers, interns, volunteers, and those that grind out 25-200 miles every August for the journey to achieve One Goal – kicking cancer’s ass. I get goosebumps thinking of all the supporters, both financially and spiritually. I will see survivors in the country with masks on, no hair in wheelchairs at the end of their driveway ringing a cowbell to encourage each rider to “keep on pedaling”, or the guy holding his sign “thanks for saving my wife”.
“Riding for Chipper” Inspires Team Cleary Cyclers
Little did we know back when we first began riding the impact of Chip’s ask, because years later he fought and lost his battle with terminal Glioblastoma brain cancer. I created a new peloton, Team Cleary Cyclers, in 2020 as another step in raising my commitment to cancer research. As team captain, my mission is recruiting riders and energizing folks to do what they can (ride, volunteer, donate) to raise funds for Pelotonia’s #OneGoal to #EndCancer. Team Cleary Cyclers has grown to over 25 riders and many more volunteers.
In the many years since my first ride, I have had many of my friends (Tim, Adam, Sheila, Rick, just to name a few), as well as my mom, die from cancer. Betty, my mom, lost her battle with Leukemia in 2013 and that is when I kicked up my game to begin riding the 2-day 180-200 mile event. I wanted to show her that I could do more by grinding through a second day even though I’m tired and don’t want to get back on that little bike seat.
We hope that you will consider joining us in 2024! How can you get involved? Ride, Volunteer, Fundraise, Become a Partner, Give, Shop. Your commitment to partner with us will help maximize the impact of Pelotonia on raising funds for cancer research and know that every dollar vested will have a lasting return.
Cheers! George
Cleary & Greenlee families
Pelotonia: One Goal – End Cancer!
Pelotonia is a community that is determined to see an end to cancer. Their mission is to engage, inspire and challenge a community committed to change the world by accelerating innovative cancer research.
Visit pelotonia.org for more information and to find out how you can help support Pelotonia’s mission of raising money for #onegoal #endcancer. 100% of all funds raised fund innovative cancer research at the James Cancer Hospital Solove Research Institute at The Ohio State University.
Now in it’s 8th year, The Ohio Eggfest is happening on Saturday, July 29, 2023 from 11a to 4p. Foodies & fans of the Big Green Egg will cook, grill, bbq and smoke meats together to raise funds for The James Cancer Hospital (OSUCCC) & the Buckeye Cruise. Since 2015, over $315,000 has been raised!
Join George, Katie, Garrett and friends of The Cleary Company for The 2023 Ohio Eggfest! A family friendly cooking competition, food festival, celebration and fundraiser.
2022
Hosted each year by Specialty Gas House, The Ohio EggFest’s purpose beyond fundraising is gathering families and foodies to celebrate “the greatest charcoal-based invention in culinary history” –The Big Green Egg. It’s a celebration and cooking, grilling, barbecue competition where all the food is cooked on The Big Green Egg grill. Cook teams from all over Ohio (and the country!) compete for awards and festival attendees enjoy a smorgasbord of samples.
There will also be live music, cooking demonstrations, giveaways, silent auctions and fun activities for families. Eggfest is also an opportunity to purchase a once-used (day of the event) Big Green Egg at a discount. These Big Green Eggs come with the nest and “ConvEGGtor” (plate setter), 20lb bag of charcoal, and Kick Ash Basket! Plus, 100% of the proceeds benefit cancer prevention, treatment & research.
Purchase your Ohio Eggfest Taster Ticket Today!
Each ticket includes admission, entertainment including live music, cooking demos & more, food from each of the 36 participating cook teams, water, and a token to vote for the best cook! Tickets are $30 pre-sale or $35 day of and kids 10 and under are FREE!
The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build was established in 1994 by George Cleary. We specialize in whole house and light commercial remodeling in Columbus Ohio. A Team of experienced professionals dedicated to #ImprovingYourHomeLife by creating functional spaces that meet the needs of our clients. We enjoy supporting the communities where we live and work by committing our time, talents and treasure. Food and fun are important to our company’s culture. Competing in The Ohio Eggfest gives us a chance to combine our passions. Our goal is to have fun serving delicious bites to attendees while raising money for cancer research!
Riders, Sponsors & Volunteers wanted for Pelotonia 2023
Fundraising and the value of a dollar ~ it is personal, and it should be purposeful!
Pelotonia began its pursuit to attack cancer from every angle possible in 2008 with a two-day bike ride. Since that time, there have only been 2 CEO’s that led the way; Tom Lennox 2008-2014 and Doug Ulman 2014- present. Both are cancer survivors who have personally walked the front line and understand how cancer shapes and changes lives. Whether it’s early detection initiatives, research funding, programs to attract the brightest in the field, equipment advances, enhanced treatments, trial protocols, or even their own lmmuno-Oncology Institute; Pelotonia is serving our community tirelessly raising more than $261 Million to date! Every dollar raised goes directly to their mission, no monies go towards overhead expenses.
I’m going on my 14th year riding for one goal, to end cancer! With The Cleary Company in 2020, I stepped up my commitment by creating and serving as captain of my peloton group, Team Cleary Cyclers.Riding for Chipper, was the call to action to honor my brother-in-law, Chip Greenlee. He’s the reason I ride! In just 3 years Team Cleary Cyclers has raised over $179,000! In 2023 we have recruited 17 riders ranging from 25 miles to 180 miles. Visit the Team Cleary Cyclers peloton page to see who they are!
We hope that you will consider joining us! How can you get involved? Ride, Volunteer, Fundraise, Become a Partner, Give, Shop. Visit the Pelotonia website for more information. Your commitment to partner with us will help maximize the impact of Pelotonia on raising funds for cancer research and it is humbling and know that every dollar vested will have a lasting return.
Bring your well behaved furry friends to our office and join us for an afternoon gathering for dog lovers to connect, shop, gain awareness, and FUNdraise!
The Cleary Company Remodel-Design-Build located at 989 Old Henderson Road in Columbus Ohio is hosting a mini dog expo featuring a market with 8 local small businesses who service dogs and their owners.
Join us on Saturday June 18th from 1-4pm for Dog Daze
Free gift for your dog ~ while supplies last!
Silent Auction ~ bid on unique custom dog houses, designed & built by Team Cleary.
Meet & cuddle with puppies & dogs ready for adoption!
Learn more about fostering and volunteering.
Pooch portrait booth by Lady Grace Photography benefiting Haley’s Comet of Change spay & neuter programs.
Shop for Dog Food, Treats, Clothing, Accessories & Services
Presenting Sponsor
Puptown Lounge provides a fun, stress free environment for daycare, boarding, grooming and coming soon – training. Serving Upper Arlington and Northwest Columbus.
Nutrition you can trust from Pet Wants with fresh pet food & pet products. Providing a complete balanced diet in every bowl.
Pop-up photo booth by Lady Grace Photography $25 donation gets you 2 digital portrait images for downloading plus additional candid shots available for purchase.
doggish makes styling your dog easy with apparel and accessories that fit you and your best friends. From chihuahuas to Great Danes, they have sizes for every dog!
Benesafe protects pets and people from fleas, ticks & mosquitoes with plant-based sprays without toxic chemicals.
From November 29th thru December 10th join Team Cleary in collecting new or gently used winter coats! This year we’re partnering with the Van Buren Center to give the gift of warmth to our less fortunate neighbors. Also needed are hats, gloves, scarves and blankets but only new items can be accepted.
Does the coat you bought last year not fit? Are you planning to purchase any great deals for winter gear? Bring your new or gently used donations to our office at 989 Old Henderson Road 43220 during business hours Mon – Fri 8am to 5pm.
Did you know the 2022 The Old Farmer’s Almanac says we’re in for one of the coldest winters in years? Central Ohioans should be prepared for below-average temperatures that could also bring a lot of snow. The coldest periods can be expected to occur in mid- to late November and through much of the period from mid-December through January.
90% of homeless adults need a new, warm coat each winter because they have no place to keep one over the summer months. That means coat drives play an important role every year in making sure everyone has equal access to warm clothing during the colder months. Your donation will help make a difference in the lives of those less fortunate and give them hope, comfort, and warmth this winter season.
For more information about the Van Buren Center’s holiday wish list, giving needs and volunteer opportunities, click here.
2nd annual “Riding for Chipper” grows it’s participation and dollars raised!
On Saturday, August 28, 2021, George and his family hosted a Ride-Run-Walk event to raise money and awareness for cancer research. A humid but beautiful day welcomed 125 participants to The Cleary Company’s headquarters located in northwest Columbus Ohio. Among them were many family members and friends of the Clearys and Greenlees who came together to volunteer, ride bikes, run, walk, eat and celebrate Chip’s spirit.
After the isolation of the past two years, “Riding for Chipper” was a wonderful opportunity to rebuild a sense of community, reconnect with friends and family, get our bodies moving and have fun while supporting innovative cancer research. Participants and guests were also treated to a barbeque picnic. On the menu was smoked pulled pork, baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw, chips and cookies.
The BBQ masters responsible for the delicious food were also dear friends of Chip. Sincere gratitude and thanks to Rick Keeler, Ron Scott, Dan Fronk & Mike Kreider. Also lending behind-the-scenes support was Bill Greenlee, Andy Shaffer, & Jim Schrim. They all agreed, “It was an honor & privilege to use Chipper’s smoker & serve those who helped raise money for cancer research. Chipper was there with us in spirit & proud for what it was we achieved.”
Thanks to everyone’s efforts over $3,500 was raised that day! Winners for the Trek E-bike raffle were also announced:
EBike – Alex S.
Helmet – Marshall S.
Jersey – Peg B.
8-28-2021 “Riding for Chipper”
Jeremy Holmes, George’s nephew, said, “For those of us with youngsters, this event was great for the variety of activities so that all ages could feel fully engaged. My nine-year-old and I rode 12.5 miles. He couldn’t stop telling people that it was his personal record. My five-year-old was so proud that he was in charge of the water bottles.”
Kudos to Team Cleary Cyclers
The Team Cleary Cyclers peloton, a riding group George created in 2020 to honor his brother-in-law Chip, was 19 members strong this year. Their combined Pelotonia fundraising goal of $28,350 was nearly tripled to $85,328. Thanks to a generous donor who anonymously gave $25,000 with an additional matching commitment of up to $25,000! The camaraderie of training, riding and fellowship that come from the Pelotonia community is such an uplifting experience for all who participate. Meet our peloton!
Riders: George Cleary Sr, Betty Cleary, George Cleary Jr, Sara Greenlee, Chase Greenlee, Mary Greenlee, Jeremy Holmes, Walt Betly, Aaron Enfinger, Margot Sheehan, Andi Simpson, John Hamlett, Jen Sommers, Ron Sima, Markus Sachtler, Stephen Sauer, Mark Mason
Challengers: Susie Wroble
Volunteers: Jenn McNeil
Who is “Riding for Chipper” named after?
Chip Greenlee was George’s brother-in-law & friend of nearly 30 years. He fought Gioblastoma – an aggressive type of cancer that begins in the brain. Sadly he lost his battle on August 22, 2020. To know Chip was to love the guy. He lived a full, energetic, joyous life, cut short after a valiant battle with brain cancer. It was only fitting that we would gather to honor his memory by celebrating some of his favorite things: Barbeque, Bikes and Family.
For some of us, “Riding for Chipper” was an emotional memorial to a dearly missed husband, father, brother, cousin, uncle, and friend. For others, it was an opportunity to have fun and do a little bit of good on a Saturday. No matter our motivations, we’d like to think Chip was with us that day and would have approved!
Pelotonia: One Goal – End Cancer!
Team Cleary Cyclers continues to raise funds through October 31, 2021 to achieve the ONE GOAL – END CANCER! Donate today to Team Cleary Cyclers OR Visit pelotonia.org for more information and to find out how you can help support Pelotonia’s mission.
It’s back! After a successful 2020 fundraising event, George, along with the Cleary and Greenlee families, is excited to host another “Riding for Chipper” Ride-Run-Walk to celebrate the life of his brother-in-law, Chip Greenlee, and raise money for life-saving cancer research. Sadly, Chip lost his battle against Glioblastoma brain cancer on August 22, 2020.
Team Cleary Cyclers peloton is so excited to announce an anonymous donor who’s not only pledged $25,000 but has also committed to matching any peloton donations now thru August 28th! Click here to donate to Team Cleary Cyclers. 100% of all funds raised by our peloton go towards funding innovative cancer research at the James Cancer Hospital Solove Research Institute at The Ohio State University.
Join George, his family, friends and Team Cleary Cyclers on Saturday, August 28th for the 2nd annual “Riding for Chipper” Ride-Run-Walk fundraiser that will start and end at 989 Old Henderson Road Columbus OH 43220. After a morning of exercise, we’ll gather for fellowship, food & fun! Chipper’s Smoker will be fired up and filled with meats along with some yummy sides.
Pelotonia was never just about the ride. It’s always been about setting and achieving goals to fight a disease that impacts all of us. Cancer has affected everyone’s life. I can’t think of a single person I know that has not either lost someone or has been touched by this disease. That’s why I ride!
Pelotonia is truly the most enthusiastic, positive experience that I have ever been part of. My brother-in-law, Chip Greenlee, encouraged me to get involved. We rode together for many years on Stephanie Spielman’s Team of Hope peloton. Over the last 11 years, I have had many of my friends (Tim, Adam, Sheila, Rick, Henry, just to name a few), die from cancer and when my mom, Betty, lost her battle with Leukemia in 2013 I kicked up my commitment to ride on the 2-day 180-200 mile route. I wanted to show her that I could do more by grinding through a second day even though I’m tired and don’t want to get back on that little bike seat.
Since 2008 George has personally raised almost $37,000 for cancer research for Pelotonia!
George is so excited that Pelotonia is back live with an in person race weekend in 2021! He invites you to join The Ride with hundreds of riders and volunteers August 6th thru August 8th.
Team Cleary Cyclers Peloton was established in 2020 by George to honor his brother-in-law, Chip Greenlee, who is the reason he started riding 12 years ago. Click here to read George’s “Why I Ride” Pelotonia journey. Last August, Team Cleary Cyclers held a Ride-Run-Walk family friendly fundraising event. In addition to other members’ fundraising efforts, their peloton raised over $24,000 in 2020! Since 2008 George has personally raised almost $37,000 for cancer research through Pelotonia.
Founded in 2008, Pelotonia was established with the objective to fund innovative cancer research. Pelotonia is a three-day experience that includes a weekend of cycling, entertainment, and volunteerism. Through its first twelve rides, Pelotonia raised more than $217 million for cancer research. Thanks to its generous funding partners, Pelotonia is able to direct 100 percent of every participant-raised dollar to cancer research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute.
4 Ways You can Contribute to Cancer Research
Ride – Register for Pelotonia’s signature Ride Weekend, an annual 3-day event focused around cycling, volunteerism, and entertainment. Routes range from 20 to 200 miles so there’s a ride to fit participants of all levels. Register to ride with Team Cleary Cyclers!
Donate – Give to a Participant or Peloton, create a fundraising campaign in honor of a loved one or just because you believe in the mission. 100% of participant funds raised go to cancer research. Give Today!
Participate Virtually – Join the Greatest Team Ever anytime, anywhere by registering as a Pelotonia Challenger. Create your own activities and fundraising goals to raise money for cancer research. Pursue your own challenge. Get Started!
Volunteer – Opportunities for both individual and group volunteering all year long. Check out FAQ page!
Pelotonia was never just about the ride. It’s always been about setting and achieving goals to fight a disease that impacts all of us. Cancer has affected everyone’s life. I can’t think of a single person I know that has not either lost someone or has been touched by this disease. That’s why I ride!
Pelotonia is truly the most enthusiastic, positive experience that I have ever been part of. My brother-in-law, Chip Greenlee, encouraged me to get involved. We rode together for many years on Stephanie Spielman’s Team of Hope Peloton. Over the last 11 years, I have had many of my friends (Tim, Adam, Sheila, Rick, Henry, just to name a few), as well as my mom, die from cancer. When my mom, Betty, lost her battle with Leukemia in 2013 I kicked up my commitment to ride on the 2-day 180-200 mile route. I wanted to show her that I could do more by grinding through a second day even though I’m tired and don’t want to get back on that little bike seat.
To honor Chip, who sadly lost his fight against Glioblastoma brain cancer last August, I made the decision to start my own Peloton, Team Cleary Cyclers. We’re Riding for Chipper!
Watch this video for more on Pelotonia & it’s amazing impact!
Even before establishing his remodeling company 27 years ago, George Cleary was active in his community. Regularly, he gives his time, talents and funds toward many local organizations. Choosing to surround himself with similarly passionate people committed to serving their communities has been a goal of building his Team. Over the last few years, the company has been particularly active with Pelotonia, Hope Hollow, Operation Backpack, Dublin Woman’s Philanthropy Club and Special Spaces.
The Columbus Community
Despite the launch of their new division, Home Services, during the pandemic, The Cleary Company committed to paying it forward to the Columbus OH community. The unanimous decision of the management Team? Supporting Central Ohio’s front line workers at area hospitals!
Between March and December 2020, Home Services, led by Director Jen Sommers, CR, Allied ASID and Lead Carpenter Michael Seyfang, completed 41 small projects. 21 of those projects were for past clients of The Cleary Company and bath2BATH.
Lead Carpenter Michael Seyfang (R) along with Carpenter Angel Aquino and Home Services client – Installed new shutters for past client in Upper Arlington OH.
“Improving Your Home Life” is a main focus of Home Services by The Cleary Company in Columbus OH. The Team specializes in the following projects.
Carpentry
Window & Door Replacement
Drywall & Paint Repairs
Electrical & Plumbing Fixture Replacements
Porch-Patio-Deck Replacements & Repairs
Mud & Laundry room Updates
Smart Home Upgrades
Small Spaces Refresh
and MORE!
To learn more about Home Services by The Cleary Company visit their webpage. Do you have a project you’d like to discuss? Contact our Team today!
