Mickey Minnich Day has been celebrated every June 16 since it was first declared in 2007 by Governor Ed Rendell.

Raising Millions to Support central Pennsylvania families battling cancer

Mickey Minnich, Founder and President of Vickie’s Angel Foundation, began the organization in 2003 with the help of his two sons, Mike and Jason. They began the organization in memory of their beloved wife and mother, Vickie. Together Mickey and Vickie battled her cancer diagnosis, and his compassion, empathy and understanding forged the basis for VAF, with a mission to lighten the load for others journeying with a loved one fighting cancer.

Teaching and Coaching

Mickey graduated from William Penn High School and attended Gettysburg College, Shippensburg University, and Western Maryland College earning Master's degrees in Counseling and School Administration. Mickey served in the US Army from 1960 through 1963. Afterwards, he found success as a Football Coach at John Harris and Steelton-Highspire High Schools. He spent 25 years in the field of Education as Teacher, Coach, Counselor, Assistant Principal and Acting Superintendent. In 1985, Mickey was named Executive Director of Pennsylvania's Big 33 Football Classic and was also Membership Chairman for the PSFCA. Mickey resigned from both positions in 2007, leaving the Big 33 Scholarship Foundation having raised a $2.5 million endowment. Retirement from these organizations allowed Mickey to devote all his time to propagating Vickie's Angel Foundation throughout nine counties in Central Pennsylvania. Today, many of his former players are still in touch. They follow and support his works at VAF.

Now nearly two decades since its inception, and with over $4 million provided in assistance, Mickey continues to lead the way as VAF shines as a Beacon of Hope for families fighting cancer, continuing to distribute 100% of net proceeds to families struggling to pay household bills during cancer treatments. In the 21st year since founding Vickie’s Angel Foundation, Mickey Minnich, with the help of friends, has raised more than $4 million that has gone to provide a temporary financial bridge for families battling cancer. For many unable to work and therefore pay bills following a cancer diagnosis, Mickey has been an answer to their prayers.