Looking at the 30-plus-year history of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which we find ourselves in again, there are some takeaways.
On one hand, we’re all more aware. And because most people know or indirectly know someone battling breast cancer, it’s comforting realizing there’s a community dedicated to finding a cure.
On the other, the marketing for the cause has regrettably been known to take precedence over the women (and men) affected by the disease.
That doesn’t mean we should do away with pink ribbons and charity. It means due diligence must be done when it comes to BCA affiliations.
To wit: 10 goods and experiences, from IPAs to college bowl games to eau de parfum, that are certified to give back, and possibly be pink.
So read on and make like a good bra — by showing some support.
APL TechLoom Phantom
For 2017, Athletic Propulsion Labs went the understated route for their Breast Cancer Awareness shoe, at least compared to last year’s fluorescent pink kicks. They’re still donating 20% from every pair sold ($165 for men’s and women’s).
Mionetto Prestige Prosecco Brut and Prestige Rosé
The third annual “Pink Cork for the Cause” runs until October 31st. Buy a promotional bottle of Mionetto’s Prestige Prosecco Brut or Rosé, then look for the pink cork. If you find one, you win a 5-speed hand mixer and are entered into a grand prize drawing which will give three winners $10,000 to donate to the breast cancer charity of their choice.
From Our Partner
Donna Karan Cosmetics Cashmere Duo
Estée Lauder has been championing breast cancer research for 25 years. This October, join them and their partners in the pursuit of a breast cancer-free world. One easy way to help? Treat your lady to this Donna Karan Cashmere Mist duo. The classic fragrance brings notes of Moroccan jasmine, lily of the valley and bergamot, and comes with a complementary hand creme. Twenty percent of proceeds go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
The Bouqs Company
From Colombian roses to Californian lilies, the Bouqs Company has curated a collection of floral arrangements to send to any woman in your life, beginning October 13th. They’re donating 20% of the proceeds to The Pink Agenda, a nonprofit raising money for breast cancer research, care and awareness.
Terranea Resort, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
The entire month of October, Terranea Resort — aka the best staycation in the greater Los Angeles area — overhauls their destination hotel in support of BCA. A portion of their proceeds from activities, amenities and accommodations will be donated to national organizations like Play for P.I.N.K. and local groups.
Coach Pink Delancey Watch
This pink-leather strap timepiece encapsulates the elegance of Coach and the eccentricities of a charm bracelet (with a breast cancer awareness ribbon at 5’oclock). In other words, a can’t-go-wrong gift for the lady in your life. Ten percent of retail sales through the end of the year go to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
2017 Cure Bowl
In 2016, only its second year, the AutoNation Cure Bowl raised $1.5 million for the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. This year, game day is December 16th at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. And tickets are as cheap as college bowl games come.
Everlast Pro Style Training Gloves
The combat sports outfitters have been supporting the Breast Cancer Research Foundation since 2006, and will be donating $75,000 to the organization this year regardless of sales. So if you’ve bought a pair of their gloves since then, good on you. If not, now’s as good of a time as any to gear up and knock that boxing class off your bucket list.
Green Flash Brewing Co. Treasure Chest IPA
In 2011, Lisa Hinkley started Treasure Chest, an annual initiative to fundraise for breast cancer charities. As a breast cancer survivor and co-founder of the craft brewery Green Flash, she figured the best way to do that was through a special beer release. This year, you can find the tropical Treasure Chest IPA on draft in 37 U.S. states, with some proceeds going to national and regional charities. So far, they’ve raised over $300,000.
The Breast BFFLBag
Best Friends for Life was started by Dr. Elizabeth Chabner Thompson, who wanted to create “bags, bras and surgical accessories for the modern age of breast treatment” after her experiences in the reconstructive surgery practice and her own prophylactic mastectomies. This bag includes the essentials for mastectomy recovery and the transition home. You can choose 15% of the net profit to go to Soul Ryeders or Friends Fighting Breast Cancer.
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