October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and what better way to get involved than NOW? Chances are we’ve known someone at some point in our lives who was impacted by breast cancer. So, why not do something to help? Whether it’s donating a few dollars at our local grocery stores or participating in Susan G. Komen’s 3-Day walkathon? A small effort on our end is what it takes to help millions of women. Here are a few ways we can get involved and take action:
1. Volunteer: There are plenty programs out there that could use an hour or two of our time. The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. has created volunteer programs which help in helping to spread the message for early detection via social media sites. Another program helps in providing free screenings and raises money for the foundation. All you’ve got to do is do a little research, find out a time and a place and show up wearing pink!
2. Fundraising: If you’ve got the time, why not help in organizing a fundraiser to raise money and awareness toward the cause? Chances are there are other people out there who would be more than willing to help out; all they need is someone to initiate it and that person can be YOU! But if you can’t organize a fundraiser, simply attending one can be a fun and exciting way to help out. Bake sales and arts and crafts are just a few ways these fundraising events strive to raise money for the cause. After all, what girl wouldn’t buy a cupcake or a cake pop after knowing the proceeds go toward breast cancer awareness? Chances are, none.
3. Donate: Being college students, we aren’t exactly known to have extra cash around, but by chipping in a few dollars you’d be doing wonders for those who need it while feeling better about yourself! It takes $100 to help provide a mammogram for a woman in need. Ask your friends if they’re interested in contributing. Asking ten of your friends to give $10, and that’ll be enough to help someone from becoming victim of breast cancer. Another way to help donate money is simply by going shopping. Several stores including grocery stores have teamed up with Susan G. Komen’s Foundation to help raise money toward the cause. When reaching the register, they’ll ask if you’d be interested in donating a dollar to two and all you’ve got to do is say “Yes!”
4. 3-Day: 3 days. 60 miles. Susan G. Komen’s three-day walk for breast cancer has become a staple in the breast cancer awareness campaign. Under the slogan, “3 days. 60 miles.” the foundation has raised $500 million since 2005, 84% of which go directly to breast cancer research and complimentary programs. Ask friends and family members if they’d like to join you for a walk you’ll always remember!
5. Spread the word: Probably the easiest way to help the cause is by spreading the word. Share statistics that will help people understand why they should act. Tell them about how easy it is to help out and take part in a nationwide campaign. Tell them about the pink ribbon, what it symbolizes, and why they should pin it to their backpacks, shirts or anywhere else. After all, a ribbon symbolizing hope and faith for those affected by breast cancer will always be in style!
With one in every eight women being affected by breast cancer, a few hours of your time or a few bucks can really go a long way. We’re all busy college gals but this is one cause that’s sure to hit home for some of us. So keep your eye out for pink ribbons and get involved!