October is dedicated to Breast Cancer Awareness Month, shining a spotlight on a disease that affects nearly one in eight women, according to the American Cancer Society. While raising awareness is crucial, it's only the beginning. To create meaningful change, we must go beyond the pink and take real action. Whether it’s through fundraising, organizing awareness campaigns, or offering direct support to those affected, your efforts can make a lasting difference.
Here are a few ways you can get involved and help make an impact.
Offering direct support to breast cancer patients as they navigate diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be one of the most meaningful ways to make a difference. By offering your time and skills, you provide real, hands-on help to those who need it most.
Treatment can be physically and emotionally draining, often making daily tasks like cooking difficult. Organizing a meal train with friends, family, or coworkers can ease this burden for patients and their caregivers. In addition, many local and national organizations rely heavily on volunteers to sustain their services, manage events, and support their programs. For instance, Mary’s Place by the Sea in New Jersey offers respite care to women battling all types of cancer. You can also reach out to your local hospitals to explore volunteer opportunities and help cancer patients directly.
On a larger scale, the American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery program has, for over 50 years, connected newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors who have gone through similar experiences. If you’re a survivor, volunteering in this way can offer comfort and hope to others in a way few others can. Similarly, the Susan G. Komen Foundation’s Breast Care Helpline relies on volunteers to provide crucial information and resources to those affected by breast cancer, giving you another opportunity to offer support and guidance.
Along with wearing pink, raising awareness is about educating others on breast cancer prevention, early detection, and available resources for patients and caregivers. Start by looking at local schools, businesses, and community organizations—many of which host awareness events that encourage regular screenings and education on the importance of early detection. Consider partnering with local hospitals or cancer centers to organize workshops on breast cancer prevention and early detection. These workshops could feature health professionals, survivors, and advocates who can provide essential insights into the importance of mammograms, self-exams, and genetic testing.
Additionally, collaborating with local media outlets or businesses to create public service announcements or distribute educational materials can help spread vital information throughout your community. Many companies also offer donation-matching programs, which can double the impact of your fundraising efforts. Hosting events like a Pink Ribbon Day not only raises awareness but also supports both local and national breast cancer organizations in a meaningful way.
Participating in or organizing a breast cancer walk or run is an impactful way to support this cause. These events not only raise essential funds for research, patient support, and public education but also provide an opportunity to show solidarity with survivors and those currently fighting the disease. Well-known events include the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, one of the largest and most recognized breast cancer fundraisers held in various cities, and the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, a series of walks that take place nationwide. You can also explore local communities that may be hosting additional fundraising events such as walks, runs, or cycling events.
Another meaningful way to support breast cancer patients is by donating items or services that can directly improve their quality of life. For example, many women undergoing treatment lose their hair and may wear wigs or scarves. Organizations like EBeauty accept gently used wigs to donate to those in need, while Knots of Love provides free, handmade hats for patients undergoing chemotherapy. Additionally, mastectomy bras and breast prosthetics can be costly, leaving some women unable to afford these essential items after surgery. Consider donating these products to local breast cancer organizations or directly to patients who may benefit from them. The nonprofit Pink Bra Bazaar specializes in offering free mastectomy bras to women in need.
However you choose to give, your support can make a significant difference in the lives of both women and men (who make up about 1% of breast cancer patients). For more ways to give back meaningfully, visit Create the Good.