This article features another program of the American Cancer Society, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. This program is ACS' premier event to raise awareness and funds to fight breast cancer. Since 1983, 3.5 million walkers have raised more than $230 million through the program. In 2006 alone, 450,000 walkers across the country raised $40 million in the fight against breast cancer.
Like all of ACS fundraising programs, it is an event to honor survivors, spread awareness and education, and highlight the importance of cancer prevention and early detection.
Most of the events are during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, in October. They are either 5km (3.1 miles) or 5 miles in length. The event consists of a noncompetitive walk, where walkers collect pledges and sponsors to raise money.
Some people walk as individuals, some form teams and get local businesses to sponsor them raising even more money. Not to mention, the lasting friendships you build with those you spend your time walking the track with.
There are events in all but 13 of the continental US, and they are working to get those other states involved. It's so easy to get involved in this event.
You can go to ACS and find the walk in your area. Let everyone you know what you are doing and start collecting pledges and donations. The morning of the event you register and join in the walk and celebration.
If you can't make the walk but still want to be involved, just collect donations and turn them in at the registration table the day of the event or contact your local Making Strides contact. Chances are there is an ACS office in your city, look for them in the community directory. The American Cancer Society is also a national Chamber of Commerce member, so call your local chamber for contact information as well.
Like every ACS does this program is no different in unifying communities and raising money for a vital cause. All of the money raised at their events goes to help support local programs in communities around the world, and the research grants that continue to making great strides in the war on cancer.
Check out your local Making Strider event and make strides in your own community. Cancer affects us all, but we are doing great things to affect cancer right back. We will win the fight! We get closer everyday!
