October is upon us, and what better time than now to feature our heroes at The Breast Cancer Fundraiser. Our team has had the pleasure of working alongside this organization for many years, while producing their annual fundraising galas. These events have been so powerful in making a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer, and we are so grateful to play a small part in it. This week we were able to connect with Charlotte Martin, the Director Of Giving, to learn more about how The Breast Cancer Fundraiser brings hope to so many women facing this difficult journey.

Charlotte, tell us a little bit about the inspiration behind The Breast Cancer Fundraiser:

THE Breast Cancer Fundraiser was inspired by one woman’s experience, witnessing her best friend’s mom fight for her life. Over 15 years have passed since 30 friends gathered in the backyard of a home in Orange County, CA to show their support. On that first night, the intention was purely to host a simple cocktail party where friends could raise a little money for breast cancer research… little did anyone know what was just beginning. This grass-roots movement of breast cancer survivors and fighters, along with passionate supporters, have made it their mission is to preserve the dignity of breast cancer patients and their loved ones by supporting their unmet needs through funding value-added services. THE BCF’s original focus was to raise funds in order to provide massage therapy, acupuncture, and fitness counseling during a patient’s journey through treatment. In 2011, the organization created a clearer vision with the leadership of volunteer and breast cancer survivor, Erin Monroe. Built from her first-hand experiences, the WeCare Program was established to help get care packages to newly diagnosed breast cancer patients. The WeCare Program is focused on (5) categories of care:

∙ WeCare about your beauty

∙ WeCare about your comfort

∙ WeCare about your wellness

∙ WeCare about your journey

∙ WeCare about your loved ones

The package consists of resources and products to help alleviate the challenges breast cancer patients face on their path to recovery and healing. From a yoga mat and a chemo beanie to comfy socks and a neck pillow, the goal is to make sure that patients know they are not alone.

Which have been some of your favorite events to host?

The 6th Annual Breast Cancer Fundraiser Event here in Los Angeles last November. I was just out of treatment, newly introduced to THE BCF and was so excited to host my first fundraiser as a survivor and recipient of a WeCare Package. The evening was a HUGE success raising just over $15,000 for our WeCare Program.

Has BCF been able to implement any creative changes to accommodate new COVID mandates?

Yes, absolutely. We’ve made significant changes to the way we fundraise for THE Breast Cancer Fundraiser. With in-person events on hold for the foreseeable future, we had to go back to the drawing board and start thinking more outside the box on ways to virtually fundraise. Over the last 6 months, we’ve hosted numerous digital fundraisers, one being 5K 5GRAND 5FRIENDS where we encouraged our community to get moving, tag 5 friends and donate to THE BCF. This was a really fun event and a great way for participants to get outdoors and be active during a time when so many of us had been stuck indoors and in quarantine.

When COVID restrictions lift, what is an event you are looking forward to producing?

I’m so excited to host our next BCF Fundraiser and WeGive Day, hopefully, early next year fingers crossed. Both events allow us to connect with our community, raise awareness about our mission, and see the impact firsthand our WeCare Packages can have on a patient’s journey.

What is the mission of The Breast Cancer Fundraiser?

To preserve the dignity of breast cancer patients and their loved ones by supporting their unmet needs through funding value-added services.

Our Founder, Rachelle, will be volunteering with Charlotte to assemble care packages this October 30th, in Los Angeles. Please reach out if you would like to get involved as well. We are so grateful for this team of people, and look forward to more opportunities to support them in their mission.