October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and each year our community joins together to raise awareness and support this cause. Breast cancer is a very common disease, and it affects 1 in 8 women and 1 in 1,000 men. Over 40,000 women will die this year in the U.S. alone.
Pink is the symbolic color for breast cancer, and it appears in abundance every October. From NFL merchandise to everyday retail, pink permeates our awareness and brings attention to the cause, making it forefront and center in our everyday lives for that month.
Because this awareness campaign is so popular, businesses have a unique opportunity to help support the cause. Businesses raise billions of dollars each year for breast cancer research and awareness. Large corporations often partner with organizations like the National Breast Cancer Foundation to give back.
Still, even small businesses and franchises can participate and make a difference. A recent survey found that 52% of small business owners donate to a charity, with 42% of them giving up to $1,000.
What can a small business do to contribute to the cause? Here are a few places to start:
- Marketing products to include pink or the pink ribbon
- Social media campaigns to promote awareness
- Fundraisers and events; i.e. races, contests
- Donate a percentage of profits
- Volunteer time as a company
Franchises even have a special award opportunity for giving with the newly established Franchising Gives Back recognition established by the International Franchise Association. Contributions by companies through donations and volunteer hours are honored for the positive impact they have on local communities.
Breast cancer research and awareness is only one of many cancer charities that need continuous support to help find a cure. Finding a worthy cause is easy; making a commitment to your community is the real challenge. The goal could be a yearly event or even incorporating charity into your business model. Start somewhere and start small. The effort will not go unnoticed, if even by a few.
The season of giving is just starting, so take this opportunity to make an impact!