One of the many perks of my line of work (influencer relations) is getting to know people who go out and make a difference in the world. Jeff Kaplan, founder of THINKstrategies, is one of these people. He’s an influential voice on SaaS and an emerging opinion leader on cloud computing. Just as importantly (at least in my eyes), he also raises funds for cancer research and treatment. Right now he’s seeking supporters for his 3rd annual 163-mile Pan-Mass Challenge bicycle ride.

The Pan-Mass Challenge bicycle ride supports the Dana Farber Institute’s research and treatment activities aimed at helping children with cancer.

This year’s bicycle ride is August 1-2. It is expected to attract approximately 5000 riders and over 2000 volunteers, and hopes to raise over $30 million in contributions, despite today’s tough economy.

Jeff rides again this year with “Team Kermit”. The team raises funds specifically for the Jared Branfman Sunflowers for Life Fund for Pediatric Brain and Spinal Cancer Research.

Making a contribution of any size is easy and tax deductible. Find more about Pan-Mass here. You can see Jeff’s PMC profile and contribute to his personal $6,000 fund-raising goal at www.pmc.org.

Jeff didn’t ask me to post about his ride, in fact he doesn’t know I’m writing this. Drop me a line if you’re in the high tech influencer / influencer relations space and are out there doing good deeds — or know of someone who is. Happy to help get word out around my corner of the community.