More than 500 supporters traveled to Orlando, Fla., for City of Hope’s Hardware/Homebuilding Industry (HHI) gala to recognize Craig Menear, executive vice president of merchandising at The Home Depot, with The Spirit of Life® Award. The group’s 2011 Spirit of Life annual effort raised $1 million for City of Hope.

Mark Baker, right, presents Craig Menear with The Spirit of Life Award. (Photo by Christie’s Photographic Studios)

The Jan. 11 event marked the culmination of various fundraising initiatives, including cause-related marketing programs, two golf tournaments with more than 200 participants in all and a Spirit of Life reception and silent auction at the Rosen Plaza Hotel. Mark Baker, 2010 Spirit of Life honoree, presented Menear with his award.

Menear has nearly 30 years of experience in the retail and hardware home improvement industry. He has held several executive positions since joining The Home Depot in 1997. In addition, Menear is currently chair of The Home Depot Foundation’s board of directors.

Former patient Tammy Erebia spoke at the gala about her personal journey with cancer. She is a former Home Depot employee and wife of Rick Erebia, currently regional merchandise manager at The Home Depot.

Since it was founded in 1982, HHI has raised $150 million for lifesaving research, treatment and education programs at City of Hope. The group has grown to encompass a nationwide network of high-profile manufacturers, retailers, distributors, manufacturers’ representatives and related members. Its next Spirit of Life gala, set for February 2012 in Orlando, will mark the 30th anniversary of the HHI group and its relationship with City of Hope.