It’s October, and the world is awash in fifty shades of pink. From NFL games and commercials to your local big box store and the card tables set up around town, the opportunity to purchase ribbons, bracelets, T-shirts and more is at epic proportions.
(Flickr/Creative Commons)
Even the Temecula Valley Soccer Association’s HAWKS has lined its fields in pink and has engaged the Pink Sock Campaign, raising almost $2,000 for Michelle’s Place.
“They’ve done everything right,” said Kim Goodnough, Executive Director of Michelle’s Place in Temecula. “This has been a totally transparent event and a fabulous effort for the kids to see what they can do to help with a great cause this October.”
But how can you be sure you know where your donation is going?
“The best part about the pink campaigns is that Breast Cancer Awareness month is now so recognizable to all,” Goodnough said. “There are more people talking about breast cancer and early detection is certainly on the rise. But, we ask that you remember to check and see just what you are supporting when you make a purchase. What is the cause and what is the cure?”
There are many resources available that offer support, training, awareness and research on behalf of breast cancer and now there are certain watch-dog online entities where you can investigate to ensure proper stewardship of your funds is taking place.
Using sites like www.charitynavigator.org or www.guidestar.org can help answer some of those more challenging questions.
“Just because a store is selling pink wares doesn’t mean any funds are actually reaching those in need,” Goodnough said. “These sites are the tattle-tales of non-profits and keep donors aware of what sort of administrative and promotional costs each non-profit is engaged in.”
The key to the pink campaign, in Goodnough’s opinion, is that it is working.
“Over nine years that I’ve worked at Michelle’s Place, we’ve seen the results from the Komen Foundation’s research initiatives. It’s really phenomenal. And the best part about supporting with pink in October is the hope that is reflects. Breast cancer is survivable. Each case is unique, but the survival rates continue to improve, especially with early detection.”
Goodnough has witnessed changes in the Temecula Valley over the past near-decade, another positive sign that awareness is on the rise.
“Ten years ago, we were barely allowed to speak at schools, due to the nature or our images and materials. Now, we are readily accepted, and awareness is definitely on the rise.”
Offering a final word on wearing pink in support of breast cancer research, Goodnough said: “Wear your pink, just know what you are supporting when you make a purchase or a donation. Never hesitate to ask where that portion of your proceeds is going.”
Michelle’s Place, currently in its first year at the new location, now is able to offer much more in services, outreach, support, and events.
Michelle’s Place is located at 27645 Jefferson Avenue #117, Temecula.
For more information, visit: http://www.michellesplace.org/
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