This week, our voluntourism spotlight highlights the Susan G. Komen Race for a Cure. It’s not just about running. Keep reading for many ways to get involved with the fight against breast cancer. Tune into this weekend’s broadcast of Peter Greenberg Worldwide for more information. Don’t forget to check back every Wednesday for more voluntourism opportunities.
The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is best known as a national race to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer. However, there’s a way to help the Race for the Cure without even breaking a sweat. While visiting the Mall of America from April 18 to May 12 you can stop by the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure kiosk and pick up something for a loved one. Whether you’re after clothing, jewelry, or novelties there’s something for everyone on your list. And finally some shopping you can feel good about doing as the proceeds support the fight against breast cancer!
With its 30th anniversary happening this year, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure is the largest series of 5K runs/fitness walks in the world, with over a million participants since 2005.
The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure Series raises significant funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer, celebrates breast cancer survivors, and honors those who have lost their battle with the disease. Up to 75 percent of the net income from each domestic Affiliate Race stays in the local community to fund breast health education and breast cancer screening and treatment projects. A minimum of 25 percent of the net income from each domestic Affiliate Race supports the Komen for the Cure Award and Research Grant Programs, which fund groundbreaking breast cancer research, merit based awards and educational and scientific conferences around the world.
There are many different ways to get involved with this organization. You can sign up to race in a 5k where people pledge to donate on your behalf, donate yourself, read and share Voice of Impact (breast cancer survivors share their stories), or help with Circle of Promise that focuses on awareness of breast cancer in the African American community because they have the highest rate of all ethnic groups.
Races take place throughout the country and year round, simply log on to the website to find out when the next race is happening near you. In 2012 races began taking place internationally with 18 races in 13 different countries.
By Laura Lee Jurgens for PeterGreenberg.com
