Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. It is a nationwide network of community-based fundraising walks organized by the American Cancer Society. The campaign is dedicated to saving lives from breast cancer by funding innovative research, providing patient support services, and promoting early detection and prevention. Since its inception, it has grown into one of the largest and most visible breast cancer awareness events in the United States.

Overview

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer serves as a primary fundraising and awareness initiative for the American Cancer Society's efforts against breast cancer. The program mobilizes hundreds of communities across all fifty states and in Puerto Rico through non-competitive, inspirational walks. Its mission is deeply intertwined with the broader goals of the American Cancer Society, focusing on reducing breast cancer mortality through a multi-faceted approach. The events are designed to be inclusive, welcoming survivors, caregivers, families, and corporate teams to participate in a shared experience of hope and solidarity.

History and organization

The Making Strides Against Breast Cancer campaign was launched in 1993 in Boston, Massachusetts, with a single walk. It was created to fill a need for a focused, community-driven event that could directly support breast cancer programs. The American Cancer Society, a long-standing leader in the fight against cancer, organized the event to complement its existing research and advocacy work, such as the ACS CAN advocacy arm. The campaign's structure is decentralized, with local American Cancer Society divisions and volunteer committees organizing events tailored to their communities, while adhering to national guidelines and branding.

Events and fundraising

The signature events are 3-to-5-mile walks held annually in the fall, primarily during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October. These events are not races but celebratory gatherings that often feature survivor recognition ceremonies, educational booths, and family-friendly activities. Fundraising is driven by participant pledges, with teams from major corporations like Bank of America and CVS Health often contributing significantly. The funds raised are allocated by the American Cancer Society to support breast cancer research grants, patient lodging programs like the Hope Lodge, and free services such as the National Cancer Information Center.

Impact and achievements

Since its founding, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer has raised over $1 billion to combat breast cancer. This funding has supported groundbreaking research, including studies that contributed to the development of drugs like Herceptin and advanced understanding of genetic factors like the BRCA gene. The campaign has also directly aided millions of patients through free rides to treatment via the Road to Recovery program and wig banks. Furthermore, its advocacy efforts have helped pass legislation like the Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment Act, expanding access to care for underserved women.

Partnerships and sponsors

The campaign relies on strategic partnerships with national and local sponsors to amplify its reach and fundraising. Major national sponsors have included QVC, Bristol Myers Squibb, and Hologic. These corporate alliances often involve cause-related marketing campaigns, employee engagement, and substantial financial contributions. Local events are frequently supported by regional hospitals, such as those within the Mayo Clinic network, and media partners like ABC Owned Television Stations. These collaborations are essential for promoting event participation and sustaining the campaign's long-term financial viability and public visibility.

Category:American Cancer Society Category:Breast cancer organizations Category:Charity walks in the United States Category:Health-related fundraising events