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Affiliate Introduces Text To Donate

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 11:09:14 -0400

PLEASE NOTE

Text PINK to 27722 to make a $5.00 donation to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. Charges will appear on your wireless bill, or be deducted from your prepaid balance. All purchases must be authorized by account holder. Must be 18 years of age or have parental permission to participate. Message and Data Rates May Apply. Text STOP to 27722 to STOP. Text HELP to 27722 for HELP. Full Terms: mGive.org/T. Privacy Policy.

Introducing an Easy Way to Join the Local Fight Against Breast Cancer.

Always ahead of the trend to saving lives from breast cancer in our neighborhoods, the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure^® is utilizing 'text to donate' to increase fundraising for the upcoming Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure. As is also always true with Komen Philadelphia Affiliates initiatives, this unique opportunity is about much more than raising money. Mobile donors will also have the opportunity to join our mobile community after donating to receive updates on how their support saves lives.

"We want everyone to feel empowered to help save the lives of their loved ones, neighbors, colleagues, hairdressers... the woman who waves from her porch every morning as they walk the dog," said Elaine I. Grobman, Chief Executive Officer of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "Texting PINK to 27722 to donate $5 is an easy way for people to truly make a difference.

"The path from texting to empowering is direct: each text generates a donation to our Race for the Cure. Race fundraising fuels our Community Grants Program. Through the program we distribute grants to local organizations who in turn provide educational, diagnostic, screening, treatment and other support services to women in need - those without the coverage or means to pay for it themselves."

Grobman said that 25% of Race fundraising is also used for research; so, while The Affiliate is saving lives today, they are also helping drive the science that will assure future generations live free from the threat of breast cancer.

Texting PINK carries another important message: every dollar counts!

"Some may say, 'each text ONLY donates $5.' But as we see it different - it ONLY takes 25 people texting one time to generate enough to fund a mammogram for a woman in need! And that one mammogram doesn't only bring piece of mind and possibly save the life of the woman who receives it... it impacts all of her loved ones as well. When you think in these terms, one $5 text yields a lot of power."

Finally, texting PINK demonstrates The Affiliate understands how people live today and that economic times are still challenging. For many, it's not always easy to write a check for the cause. Some may want to contribute but are embarrassed they can't give what they feel is 'significant'. Some simply may not have the time. And in a society trending toward 'digital and cashless', some may not have the cash on hand to drop into a donation box.

"Texting to donate provides an easy solution for all these challenges. I can't stress enough that every donation is valued and critical to our work in fifteen counties. By making the ability to contribute accessible to everyone, we get closer and closer to making quality breast health services as equally accessible to ALL women in our community."

Pink Ribbon of the Month, May: Wawa

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 20:48:16 -0400

Hundreds of Wawa volunteers prepare for weeks, prep onsite all of Race weekend and arrive long before dawn on Race day to serve you all with a huge smile and 'thank you for your support!' In fact, we estimate over the years Wawa and their volunteers have fed nearly 1 million people on Race morning.

Moreover, for this year's Race, Wawa stepped up again to help us implement our brand-new V.I.P. Green program. Everyone who registers for the Race will be recognized with a special green wristband, which allows us to identify and thank all of you who are providing such needed support for our fight to end breast cancer. The green wristband will also give you V.I.P. perks such as "Racers Express" lines at the Wawa food tent and "spot" prizes from Macy's and other great sponsors.

However, as impressive as that scene is, the infamous Wawa Race Tent is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to defining the many ways this dedicated partner not just contributes to our fight against breast cancer - but, indeed, has helped to pave the course of our local breast cancer movement for nearly two decades. Indeed, like an iceberg, there is much below the surface of Wawa's fight for all women - present and future - of our community... things many of you may not know. This month, we bring them to light, and encourage you to continue reading to discover more ways Wawa is fighting for you, your children and our world without breast cancer!

The drive behind Wawa's immense devotion to - and impact on -our breast cancer movement can be found in the very same core values on which they operate their company:

Value people
Delight customers
Embrace change
Do the right thing
Do things right
Passion for winning

About 20 years ago, Wawa came to the leadership of the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure ready, willing and eager to infuse these values into our mission, especially: value people, do the right thing and a passion for winning - in this case, winning the fight against breast cancer! In no time at all, the other Wawa core values simply fell into place as Wawa not only supported our Race, they empowered the growth of the event, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, and our community's progress in fighting and defeating breast cancer.

The Many Empowerments of Wawa

Wawa empowers "Our Community. Our Cures" with extremely generous financial sponsorships that allow the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate to raise millions of dollars - from being a presenting sponsor of the Race, to sponsoring the CBS 3 Call for the Cure, our Pink Tie Ball and more.

They bring hope to our fight by helping us educate and bring awareness to the community - again, sponsoring CBS's 3 public service announcements, Call for the Cure and the brand-new Susan G. Komen for the Cure Presents: Survivor Stories television special the week before the Race. Wawa also has a tremendous grassroots dynamic for education and awareness among their customers, as well as their own family of employees and management. From internal awareness messages in their newsletter, to the now-traditional Race for the Cure coffee clutches, Wawa will stop at nothing to make sure NO person is left behind!

Year-round Wawa helps inspire activism in our cause by donating thousands and thousands of dollars in product and gift cards to motivate fundraising, inspire participation and reward and CELEBRATE everyone who supports the fight. In the same way, they provide products necessary for the many activities in the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate community - from water for every runner and walker at our Race for the Cure... to energizing nourishment for busy volunteers!

And, then, there are the people - the countless places where the Wawa family and Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family are indistinguishable. From Lisa Wollan, Wawa Head of Consumer Insights & Brand Strategy who also serves as the Vice President of our Board of Directors and has helped bring incredible new innovations to our work... to the Wawa executive team who always seems to 'find resources' to donate whenever we have a need... to the customer service associates who hand out our Race brochures and volunteer wherever needed... every member of the Wawa team takes great pride in embracing the community in the hope and power of the Komen Promise.

We could go on for pages trying to list the numerous contributions Wawa has made all along our journey to the cures. But to do so would be like attempting to put into words why our mothers, fathers, sisters or brothers are such an integral part of our lives. You simply cannot put a value on the family that dreams with you, uplifts you, discovers with you, believes in you and walks beside you every step of the way ... and that is exactly who Wawa is to every person united in the fight to end breast cancer forever. The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate thanks the Wawa family for being OUR family, and we look forward to forging ahead together - faster, stronger, more confidently than ever - with them at our side.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, April: The Bock, Medeiros, Bock-Medeiros Trio

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 15:46:51 -0400

Now and then, you hear us talk about the 'next generation' to take root in our community's breast cancer movement... and take up the fight that will see us to an ultimate end of this disease. Tracie, Matt and Jason are literally that next generation - taking the lead from their father/father-in-law, Harris Bock, who served on the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Board of Directors as Treasure for six years. Tracie and Jason were very actively involved with the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure - walking and volunteering in many capacities - since they were teenagers. Matt became involved very soon after he moved to Philadelphia and met Tracie... forever becoming one with the Bock and Komen Philadelphia families with equal passion and dedication to making a difference.

One of the greatest demonstrations of their strength, devotion and leadership in this cause is that all three realized how much more fulfilled they could be in their breast cancer missions ... what a greater difference they could make... by looking beyond the Race for the Cure. That is, they found ways to channel the momentum, hope and community of that one day in May to fuel activism throughout the year.

"The Race on Mother's Day is such an uplifting, rewarding event... it's a great opportunity to be with family and friends and experience making a difference in this cause," said Matt, a commercial insurance broker and area vice president for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. "When we first got involved with the Pink Tie Ball After X Party last year, and then were given the opportunity to take on a leadership role this year - as a family, we knew this would be our way to take the power of the Race further to reach, and hopefully involve, more people of our generation."

Tracie, Matt and Jason share many reasons for getting involved with The Affiliate, including the realization that breast cancer impacts every life, a desire to educate younger people that now is the time to take preventative action for their own health, and a strong sense of responsibility to support the continuation and growth of the life-saving work The Affiliate does in the community.

"Our involvement with the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate gives back to us in so many ways, and, personally, it helped me establish my roots in Philadelphia," said Tracie, an attorney with Lavin, O'Neil, Ricci, Cedrone & DiSipio. "It helped me to appreciate and be proud of this city and the dedication the people of Philadelphia have shown in supporting the cause... It's energizing to be a part of this and a great opportunity to spread the word to our generation about the importance of early detection and our ability to make a difference in this battle for women's health."

"Komen is a great organization, and the cause is one that is important to all of us. Elaine (Grobman) clearly and truly cares for the mission, you can't help but be inspired and take action," said Jason, vice president at a commercial real estate firm, MSC - Michael Salove Company. "She has motivated the three of us to want to give back, and we hope to do the same for hundreds of others in the young professionals community."

Moreover, all three attest to the benefits the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate young professionals program has brought them in terms of expanding their social and career networks, and they hope to demonstrate to their peers how having fun, advancing your career and doing good works can all come together. To that end, they have aggressive goals for the 2012 Pink Tie Ball After Party, and hope to embrace a larger audience to double attendance and fundraising over last year. Just how they plan to do this is still a bit of a secret... kept behind the "mask," you could say... but early plans certainly indicate it's going to be an evening of a lifetime!

"I personally, and all of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, thank and applaud Tracie, Matt and Jason for so selflessly giving of their time and heart for the good of our community's breast cancer movement," said Elaine Grobman, CEO of The Affiliate. "None of them have been impacted by breast cancer in their immediate family, yet they have the vision to see if we don't all take action, that can change very quickly. These three have the extraordinary devotion as activists not just for themselves, but the greater good. We are very fortunate to have these three exceptional young people leading our way."

And so, we're happy to reward the "Bock, Medeiros, Bock-Medeiros Trio" with our April Pink Ribbon. We extend our appreciation and set them forth to everyone as a great example of how and why activism in the cause only grows stronger beyond the Race for the Cure.

Circle of Promise Delaware

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:51:17 -0400

As part of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate's commitment to serving the entire state of Delaware, Affiliate and Circle of Promise leaders held an educational session on March 10 at the Dover Downs Conference Center in Dover, DE. During this inspirational and motivational session, we mobilized sixteen Circle of Promise volunteers to reach out to the women of their communities with messages about the importance of early detection, as well as the educational, screening, treatment and other life-saving services provided by the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate and participants in our Community Grants Program. These volunteers will also assist at health fairs and other breast health empowerment programs in Delaware that are supported through our grantees.

"The Circle of Promise is a beautiful opportunity for African-American women to support each other in the fight against breast cancer, as woman-by-woman with the support of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, we assure NO woman is ever alone with her fears, anxieties or questions about this disease," said Elaine I. Grobman, CEO of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "Peer interaction and influence is so powerful, and through the Circle of Promise, we are harnessing that power to break down barriers, open doors and take this breast cancer movement to new levels of achievement and hope."

All women are encouraged to be embraced in the Circle of Promise. To learn how you can join this movement and empower your community visit www.Komen.org/Circle

Pictured, Top (l-r): Circle of Promise Delaware volunteers: Roszenia Jackson, Sheila Thomas, Muriel Thomas, Cynthia Fields, Shaquanna Shields

Pictured, Bottom (l-r): Circle of Promise Delaware volunteers: Shaquanna Shields, Valerie Payton, Sharon Powell, and Alisha Yarbrough

About the Circle of Promise

Although breast cancer continues to impact people from all backgrounds, there are significant differences within the mortality rates among racial groups. During the early 1980s, breast cancer death rates for white and African American women were about equal, but during 2001-2005 African American women had a 37 percent higher death rate.

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Circle of Promise has pledged to do our part to ensure that African American women are. The Circle of Promise movement is designed to engage African American women to help end breast cancer forever by fostering increased awareness, support, empowerment and action.

Joining this powerful movement allows women to motivate and empower the community, mobilize and get active in public policy efforts and dispel myths that prevent women from getting the needed access to care that can save their lives. Learn more at www.Komen.org/Circle

Pink Ribbon of the Month, March: Chapman Auto Stores

Sat, 25 Feb 2012 13:38:50 -0500

Sure, we could reference the more than $400,000 that Chapman's donation of a Ford Mustang Convertible has raised over eighteen years of our Race for the Cure new-car raffle. We could cite the approximate $280,000 raised by eight years of a Chapman Ford Mustang donation for our Pink Tie Ball auction. We could add in tens-of-thousands of dollars in donations from the Chapman family over the years... simply because, they are determined to help us end breast cancer forever.

But, while important and vastly appreciated, these "dollar values" don't even come close to capturing the true value of the friendship Chapman Auto Stores has extended to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate - and all of you - over two decades of loyal support.

The story we share in honoring Michael and Randy Chapman, as well as the Chapman Auto Stores family, with our Pink Ribbon of the Month offers inspiration on many levels for everyone, while also infusing hope into your personal breast cancer mission knowing this incredible friend is fighting by your side.

Inspiration #1 we gain from Chapman is Always believe! Eighteen years ago, when the Race for the Cure was just a fledgling initiative in Philadelphia, Michael, Randy and their father, Roy, shared our dream of creating an event that would change the face of breast cancer. At a time when few people even talked about the disease, the Chapman family was front and center showing their support and encouraging people in their professional and personal circles to share in their conviction that a world free of breast cancer could become a reality.

Chapman Inspiration #2: We all have strength to gain form each other. Chapman Auto Stores has always been the picture of humility, eschewing the 'spotlight' and instead preferring to be behind the scenes where they can learn from other supporters, volunteers and sponsors. Plus, they continuously encourage every member of their team - from the top execs to the sales team and support staff - to get involved, share their inspirations and, together, empower the Chapman mission in the breast cancer movement.

Inspiration #3: Money isn't everything! At the top of this article, we left no question that Chapman Auto Stores is extraordinarily generous when it comes to their financial support of The Affiliate. However, they also have a deep understanding of ALL the components that contribute to creating the most powerful force possible to defeat breast cancer - and they make every effort to contribute to all of them!

By opening up their dealership to host our Race rallies and first-ever fundraising fair, Chapman motivates, rewards and teaches the 'how to's' of fundraising. Moreover, from underwriting gifts to show appreciation to our Pink Tie Ball supporters... to volunteering at the Race and other Affiliate events... to providing the man power and the horse power, in the form of several sporty lead cars, that enables our Race to start off in celebratory style... and so much more, Chapman Auto Stores literally and figuratively goes the extra miles to fuel our fight from start to finish.

Twenty years ago, Chapman Auto Stores made one of their first contributions to our Race by providing vans and drivers to transport to the top of the Art Museum steps breast cancer survivors and patients who were physically unable to get there on their own. A seemingly little contribution, this act of compassion came from a very BIG heart, and made a very BIG difference by assuring all survivors of the opportunity to take their victory walk in the Parade of Pink. It was also the first step in an invaluable friendship that every day since has grown in its support, dedication, love and strength for every woman and man in our community fighting for the cures. Our appreciation to the Chapman family runs deep, as does our respect for the measurable difference they make in all of our lives.

Pictured: The dedicated family from Chapman Auto Stores takes their place - just like they've done every year for nearly two decades - in front of the Ford Mustang they donate for our Race for the Cure raffle.

Local Grantees Receive Over $2 Million in 2012-2013

Sat, 25 Feb 2012 14:13:24 -0500

The Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure^® recently infused millions of additional dollars into the local breast cancer movement to support the outreach, service and treatment programs of 44 organizations in 2012-2013. The grantee group represents some of the finest healthcare, community and family service organizations from throughout the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate's fifteen-county service area, and offers broad outreach in terms of ethnicity, income level, age and lifestyle. For the 2012-2013 grant period, The Affiliate distributed $2,006,709 in grants to support breast health education, awareness, screening, treatment and support projects specifically targeting low-income, uninsured women.

"Our community grants program is about exactly that... OUR community and OUR cures, being delivered ever day right here at home," said Elaine I. Grobman, Chief Executive Officer of the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. "So many think of 'the cures' as that ultimate scientific discovery that will make breast cancer obsolete - but there is much more to the cures in our mind. Yes, while we also contribute significant money for research, the majority of our funding is used for the things we can do in our local communities right now ... like free mammograms, diagnostic services and treatment for uninsured women, education in dozens of languages, a hot meal for a breast cancer patient and her children, transportation to a screening appointment, or a supportive friend who helps to overcome the generations-old belief that 'we don't talk about breast cancer.'

"Our grantees are hard at work every day in our neighborhoods breaking down barriers, making critical connections to women and the loved ones who support them, and building bridges to the cures," Grobman continued. "Their dedicated teams are out there helping fulfill the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate promise to not quit until we've lead ALL women in our fifteen counties out of the darkness of this disease and instead filled their journey with hope and life-enriching, life-saving services regardless of race, financial ability, education or background."

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate distributes grants to organizations that work with the medically underserved, including uninsured and underinsured individuals and those individuals who may not receive adequate care because of barriers such as language, cultural differences and fear.

The outreach spans the Komen Philadelphia service area of: Adams, Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Montgomery, Philadelphia and York counties, PA; Camden County, NJ; and Kent, New Castle and Sussex counties, DE.

The Affiliate's rigorous grantee selection process assures funded programs uphold the integrity of the Komen name and meet the needs of diverse communities throughout its service area. In total, the programs funded by 2012-2013 Komen Philadelphia Affiliate grants are expected to accomplish the following:

Referral mammograms: 6,315
Mammograms performed: 3,996
Clinical breast exams: 3,930
Outreach contacts: 45,916
Education/counseling contacts: 11,266

The forty-four new Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Grantees will be honored at the annual Komen Philadelphia Grantee Luncheon on Friday, March 9 at the Loews Philadelphia Hotel. Click here for a list of the grantees, grant type and funded program.

Alpha Beta Gama Raises Over $1000

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 09:25:04 -0500

The visit was planned so that the Alpha Beta Gama (ABG) students and leadership team could present its check to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. A brief testimonial was given by two Manor College students on the highlights and rewards of being involved in this service activity.

Tom Kirk, from Abington News & Views, also attended and videotaped the event and interviewed the Alpha Beta gama team. Their fundraising events included selling their traditional pink ribbons, pretzels,homemade chocolate lollipops, wall ornaments, chances for a Basket of Hope, and the ultimate day trip to New York City. The Affiliate and the Alpha Beta Gama team thanks the support of everyone who participated in the breast cancer awareness events and made all these activities possible.

At the end of it all, Alpha Beta Gama raised $1,405 for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

"To see these young men and women starting out their adult lives with such deep sense of responsibility and commitment to their generation and their community by empowering the fight against breast cancer is what hope in the cures is all about," said Bernadette White, Administrative Outreach Education Coordinator for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "I've been involved in many, many community breast cancer awareness and education programs over the years, and I never cease to be inspired by teamwork and determination such as that demonstrated by the Alpha Beta Gama family at Manor College. The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate is so very grateful for their efforts, and it is an honor for us to be fighting side-by-side with them as we lead our community closer to an end to breast cancer forever."

Pictured: Two Manor College Alpha Beta Gama students join breast cancer survivor, Lucia Montelone (right), Director of Accounting and organizer of the fundaiser in presenting their check to Bernadette White (2nd from right).

Pink Ribbon of the Month, February: 10-Year Old Ariana Flores

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:31:51 -0500

On October 29, 2008, the Philadelphia Phillies won the World Series, and Ariana Veronique Flores and her family spent their first night in their new South Philadelphia home. It was a night of celebration and champions for our community. One team, being hailed the champions of baseball. And one special girl putting down roots that would shortly lead her to be recognized as one of the youngest, most ambitious champions of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. Given this start, it's appropriate the first public Komen Philadelphia Affiliate event in which Ariana participated was the 2012 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure Rally of Champions, this past January - where she proudly shared her first commandment of Race participation.

Deep down in her heart, Ariana's passion for empowering the breast cancer movement was inspired by the death of her grandmother to the disease... five years before Ariana was born. However, it was a school assignment that 'sparked the fire' when she was assigned by her 5th grade Math teacher to track the attendance of an event for 5-7 years. Ariana chose the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure and, in true Ariana push-the-envelope fashion, was soon sitting down with the CEO of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate to learn anything and everything she could.

"It took me about 30 seconds to see a level of passion and compassion in this young lady that truly embodied the spirit of our namesake, Susan G. Komen," said Elaine I. Grobman, CEO. "To see that type of dedication is truly special in an adult of 30 or 40, let alone a ten year old. I've been leading our local fight for over two decades, and I never experienced such energy and inspiration in a 'child' as I have with Ariana. There is no doubt, with someone with her strength and conviction leading her generation, ALL generations will one day be living in a world free from breast cancer."

Since that initial meeting, Ariana and The Affiliate continue to grow their friendship, and Ariana has taken extraordinary action to support the 2012 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure - quickly becoming an advocate, fundraising phenom and so much more. She now co-captains with her mother, the Race Team "From the Hart" in memory of her grandmother, is pursuing all types of team fundraising initiatives and this February 3, will also make two appearances at the Race Kick-Off Party - first as the Ambassador representing Philadelphia County in the Kids for the Cure^®: UnitedHealthcare Dash to Make a Difference, and later in the program donning pink boxing gloves to show her determination to 'come out fighting' against breast cancer.

"I know I have my whole life ahead of me to help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer, but I also know the sooner I get involved, the greater the impact I can make," says Ariana. "No matter what age you are, you can be a source of support and hope for others simply by helping them to believe together we can fight breast cancer and one day cure it."

And so, as Ariana embarks on her first Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure experience - we proudly recognize her with our Pink Ribbon of the Month, share her story with you, and thank her for filling the lives of youth and adults alike with tremendous hope in the cures.

Affiliate Expands Service Area to 15 Counties

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 20:40:21 -0500

The Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure officially expanded its service area to include Adams and Lebanon Counties in Pennsylvania. With the additional counties, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate now services fifteen counties: eleven in Pennsylvania, three comprising the entire state of Delaware, and Camden County, New Jersey.

The Affiliate's expansion initiative was motivated by the fact that the two new counties previously had no Komen representation, a measurable need for breast health services in many communities in the counties, and a steady growth of Affiliate resources allowing them to provide the new counties with the same quality of services they've been delivering to the other counties for years. When The Affiliate was founded in 2001, they served eleven counties, excluding Kent and Sussex counties in Delaware, which were added a few years later.

"Komen's mission, success and leadership are founded on a single promise from one sister to another to not stop until every person is living free from the threat of breast cancer," said Elaine I. Grobman, CEO of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "As a keeper of that promise, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate has a responsibility to do whatever we can to fill the gaps of service and embrace as many communities as possible in the support, knowledge, treatment and hope that can save lives today and lay the foundations for a future where this horrible disease is no longer a threat to ANY life.

"The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate has been fortunate to be able to nurture a very loyal core of supporters whose growing generosity and volunteerism enable us to expand our service to Adams and Lebanon Counties. This steady source of resources, our headquarters location, the fact that we already have established connections and have been serving neighboring counties for over ten years, and our proven programs make us the natural organization to step up and meet the need for breast health services in these two counties. We are confident that we can do so with the same level of support and integrity as the other thirteen counties."

Statistics show that more than one-third of the women living in Adams and Lebanon counties are not receiving recommended breast cancer screenings. Currently approximately 8% of women aged 18-64 in the Affiliate's expansion communities lack adequate health insurance to cover breast cancer screenings/treatment, and approximately 37% of women over 40 years of age have not had a mammogram in the past twelve months. The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate's service will focus heavily on decreasing the barriers to breast health screenings and care for women in need through partnerships with local health care providers and the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Community Grant Program. They will also focus on overall breast cancer/health education in the new counties, including the importance of early detection, risk factors and immediate action should an abnormality be detected.

The Affiliate also looks at the expansion to Adams and Lebanon County as strategic geographical positioning, giving them more exposure in proximity to the state capital in order to facilitate advocacy of enhanced breast health and breast cancer policy. A dedicated supporter of the Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program in Pennsylvania (The HealthyWoman Program), which relies on state funding, the Affiliate hopes to have more opportunities to advocate for the expansion of HealthyWoman by having a greater presence in the Harrisburg area.

"Last year, we estimated approximately 100,000 Pennsylvania women in need of a mammogram did not have access to one -this was in addition to those who DID thanks to HealthyWoman funding and the Community Grants Programs of the three Komen Affiliates in Pennsylvania. There's no question more funding is needed, as well as more education, more awareness and the infusion of the HOPE that is so critical in fighting and surviving breast cancer. Our expansion into these two counties is one more giant step forward to this goal."

Our Continued Commitment to Serve ALL Women

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:46:41 -0500

The Affiliate thanks all those who stuck loyally by us through these past few turbulent days, and we welcome back those whose support may have faltered. Although none of this disrupted our service to the communities we serve, we certainly now look forward to forging ahead in our quest to save lives with an even stronger direction and strategy to lead the fight against breast cancer and to provide breast cancer screenings and services to every woman in need.

With your continued support, activism and trust the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure looks forward to continuing our leadership and service excellence in the fight against breast cancer... doing whatever we can to fill the gaps of service and embrace as many communities as possible in the support, knowledge, treatment and hope that can save lives today and lay the foundations for a future where this horrible disease is no longer a threat to ANY life.

In thanks and hope,

Your Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Family

Statement from Susan G. Komen Board of Directors and Founder and CEO Nancy G. Brinker

We want to apologize to the American public for recent decisions that cast doubt upon our commitment to our mission of saving women's lives.

The events of this week have been deeply unsettling for our supporters, partners and friends and all of us at Susan G. Komen. We have been distressed at the presumption that the changes made to our funding criteria were done for political reasons or to specifically penalize Planned Parenthood. They were not.

Our original desire was to fulfill our fiduciary duty to our donors by not funding grant applications made by organizations under investigation. We will amend the criteria to make clear that disqualifying investigations must be criminal and conclusive in nature and not political. That is what is right and fair.

Our only goal for our granting process is to support women and families in the fight against breast cancer. Amending our criteria will ensure that politics has no place in our grant process. We will continue to fund existing grants, including those of Planned Parenthood, and preserve their eligibility to apply for future grants, while maintaining the ability of our affiliates to make funding decisions that meet the needs of their communities.

It is our hope and we believe it is time for everyone involved to pause, slow down and reflect on how grants can most effectively and directly be administered without controversies that hurt the cause of women. We urge everyone who has participated in this conversation across the country over the last few days to help us move past this issue. We do not want our mission marred or affected by politics - anyone's politics.

Starting this afternoon, we will have calls with our network and key supporters to refocus our attention on our mission and get back to doing our work. We ask for the public's understanding and patience as we gather our Komen affiliates from around the country to determine how to move forward in the best interests of the women and people we serve.

We extend our deepest thanks for the outpouring of support we have received from so many in the past few days and we sincerely hope that these changes will be welcomed by those who have expressed their concern.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, January: Komen Philadelphia Board of Directors

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 12:40:47 -0500

This very special family of men and women - our January Pink Ribbon of the Month recipients - is the Board of Directors of the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

More accurately, we should, and henceforth will, refer to them as YOUR Board of Directors, for in every act they take, they do so with each and every one of you in their hearts, as well as with their eye on the futures of your children and grandchildren. Acting behind the scenes most of the time, your Board quietly goes about their responsibilities to communities in thirteen counties without the slightest desire or need for fanfare, appreciation or reward - beyond that of knowing they are helping change the face of breast cancer.

But, this month, we proudly bring them into the spotlight to show our thanks and to inspire you with awareness of the caring, passionate group supporting you.

These fourteen are: Joanne Calabria (President), Lisa Wollan (Vice President), Ron Morris, CPA (Treasurer), Barbara Orr (Secretary), Frank Becker, Ellen Cavanaugh, Rabbi Jerome David, Tangee Gibson, Judy Kellem, Sue Schick, Sloane Six, Lawrence Smith, Fred Stein and Meryl Weinreb.

Year-round they dedicate immeasurable amounts of time, as well as professional and personal resources to support every Komen Philadelphia initiative - from serving as Pink Tie Ball Co-Chair, to attending P.I.N. Stripes events, to helping secure sponsorships and in-kind contributions that help assure every possible dollar of our fundraising is available to advance The Affiliate mission.

And, to THAT end, your Board is extremely knowledgeable, loyal and focused - giving you the confidence that your donations, as well as support and fundraising you work so hard to generate, are being put to the best possible use to enrich lives, SAVE lives and establish the foundations of a future free from the threat of breast cancer. This is why we consider your Board to be guardians of each activist, as well as our breast cancer movement as a whole. They are truly watching over our activities and assuring we remain on a path that leads to the cures!

Whether they are helping to structure new community profile assessments, reviewing breast health policy, looking at stronger strategies to build our sponsorship and volunteer base, or any other number of responsibilities, your Board has taken on a full-time job... and this is outside of the full-time jobs they have as professionals in a variety of industries. And, again, although you may not always see them 'in the spotlight', not one Affiliate event goes by, or initiative gets implemented, without your Board contributing personally, professionally and with a devotion that in every way upholds the integrity of the name Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

And so, to the Komen Philadelphia Board of Directors, we award our Pink Ribbon of the Month, and extend our sincerest thanks for their passion and compassion... hard work and strong conviction in the Komen Promise.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, December: Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 13:47:52 -0500

As you'll soon learn, the achievements of the Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom team are unique not only in their fundraising, but also in all that was invested on many levels for a first-ever initiative. Their story shows that, with a little creativity, smart uses of the resources at hand and a belief in the Komen Promise, any group can give back to their community in a substantial way.

Happiness is... Finding a Cure. Right at the start, the Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom campaign demonstrated that the team at the park understood the darkness breast cancer inflicts on our world, and the importance of making sure those touched by, and fighting to end, the disease never loose a sense of hope and happiness along their journeys.

The giant pink duck with the Komen ribbon - towering over 15 feet tall at the park's main midway - also did a great deal to radiate that hope and happiness this July and August! (seen here with Marlene A. Lally, Volunteer Coordinator and Operations Manager for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate). The campaign ran from July 18 to August 14, and raised funds through a $1 donation by Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom for every specially purchased online ticket to the park, the encouragement of on-site and online donations, and the incredible $5 adopt-a-duck raffle for a grand-prize 46" HDTV.

Perhaps more than anything else, the adopt-a-duck component showed Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom's thinking-out-side-the-box commitment; and it ended up being an extraordinary awareness vehicle... as hundreds of pink rubber "ducklings" floated around their 15-foot high 'mama duck' on the main midway. Hardly anyone could enter the park without remembering the importance of breast cancer awareness, and, of course, smiling at the realization that there is very real, very enormous, happiness to be in had in our power over the disease.

On August 17, The Affiliate, members of the Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom family and park-goers gathered for a check presentation and to see the winning pink rubber duck plucked from her pond. Overall, more than 1,000 guests participated in the campaign, and the check was presented for a grand total of $34,568.

"On their application for the fundraiser, Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom stated a goal of $25,000... we knew right then and there this team was serious about making a substantial impact in the breast cancer movement," said Elaine I. Grobman, CEO of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "The fact that they achieved beyond that demonstrates more than commitment... more than creative ideas. It shows the depth of PASSION for ending this disease that makes Komen a leader in the fight. We are able to do all we do because of exceptional activists like Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom - and we are truly grateful and blessed to have them in our family."

"Dorney Park is proud and excited for this opportunity to contribute to a cause that has changed lives for women world-wide," said Jason McClure - Vice President and General Manager of Dorney Park. "Giving back to our communities is an important part of being a good neighbor and this partnership will have a direct positive impact on the communities where our guests live and work. We look forward to having our guests come out to ride with pride for Susan G. Komen for the Cure."

We are proud to award Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom our Pink Ribbon of the Month for an effort that raised enough money to enrich and save many lives... for one that embraced all generations in the hope of the cures... and for one that allowed entire communities to feel true happiness despite breast cancer being in our lives.

REMEMBER TO LOOK FOR MORE exciting Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom news this winter in relation to the 2012 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure!

Philadelphia School Students Raise Over $40,000

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 18:55:53 -0500

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate thanks The School District of Philadelphia - every student, family member, teacher, staff member and volunteer - who teamed up to make our first-ever district-wide educational and fundraising program an incredible success... raising $40,580 to empower the Komen Promise here in our community!

We were proud to celebrate seven top fundraising schools during a special Dietz & Watson, Grillebration celebration at the School District Administrative offices on November 22. Approximately 350 students and staff gathered to stand up and take pride in their fundraising and awareness achievements, and were treated to Dietz & Watson hot dogs, grilled up by Dietz & Watson AND a celebrity griller - Dr. Leroy Nunery, CEO and Superintendent of the District (pictured below with Momma Dietz & Elaine Grobman)!

At the event, The Affiliate was proud to provide these winning classes with a certificate of their achievement:

Division One: Frankford High School Football team and Washington High School cheerleaders
- Coaches, Will Doggett (football) and Michelle Sorkin (cheerleaders)

Division Three: Paul L. Dunbar Elementary School

- Ms. Lucas's 6th grade class

Division Five: Bayard Taylor Elementary School

- Mr. Galloway & Ms. Grogan's 5th grade class

Division Six: Louis H. Farrell Elementary School

- Mrs. Cover's 7th grade class

Division Seven: Anna L. Lingelbach Elementary School

- Mrs. Brownlee's 6th grade class

Division Eight: Alexander Adaire Elementary School

- Mrs. Brooke's 5th grade class

Division Nine: William Levering Elementary School

- Mr. Quiras's 6th grade class (Pictured below)

GRAND-PRIZE FUNDRAISER: Louis H. Farrell Elementary School

- Mrs. Cover's 7th grade class

"Every so often, we talk about a movement... a focused activism... a new approach that revolutionizes the face of breast cancer and provides a huge leap

ahead in ending this disease forever," said Elaine I. Grobman, CEO of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "From beginning to end, the 2011 Philadelphia School District Pretty In Pig Fundraising Campaign proved to be all those things making it, indeed, revolutionary. We owe it all to the dedication, creativity, hard work, leadership and belief in our mission exhibit by everyone involved, from the students and faculty in the schools, to the parents supporting them at home. With this program, together we planted roots of change in our community in the form of: children embracing the opportunity to talk about breast cancer in their lives and help make a difference... connections between teachers and children, children and parents, parents and teachers and faculty and staff... and a union among all of them that makes breast cancer not one person's, nor one generation's fight, but instead a shared battle, hope and victory."

Click here for our full press release on the campaign.

Click here for more information about the November 22 Dietz & Watson Grillebration

Pink Ribbon of the Month, November: The Alphabet Soup

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 14:18:49 -0400

This group represents outstanding vendors whose generous donations of their talent and resources help make great successes of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate fall events by assuring people get to our events! In other words, these are the teams who donate the design and printing of our invitations and key event signage so that we can communicate all the fun, excitement and importance of the Pink Tie Ball and Teens for the Cure Tickled Pink, motivate participation, and generate impressive fundraising totals that are not diminished by printing and services costs.

These are: Old York Road Printing (OYP), The Star Group, The Creative Print Group (CPG), CRW Graphics, and Quaker Chroma Imaging! Their story of involvement and passion for the breast cancer movement is one we happily share with you as a way to show our appreciation, as well as inspire all of you in your own activism.

2011 marks the second year Old York Road Printing donated the entire printing of the Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball invitation - and if you've ever seen this invitation, you know... it's far from ordinary! For an event of this caliber, we require something altogether elegant, energetic, and first-class with lots of intriguing pages and inserts. OYP has come through with shining colors, literally... donating thousands of dollars in services and materials, with exceptional quality, lightening speed and a clear devotion to helping us end breast cancer forever.

Speaking of the Pink Tie Ball Invitation, DITTO when it comes to The Star Group! Exceptional quality. Lightening speed. Stellar attention to detail. Design and copywriting that turns heads, builds excitement and captures hearts. And, A-to-Z service for the invitation from concept to the moment they are dropped in the mail. Star has donated the creative and management of our showcase invitation for five consecutive years!

And, of course, all those invitations have to get addressed and mailed. For this, we thank The Creative Print Group, who has donated
this service for several years... again, with lightening speed and incredible attention to detail.

As for our other major fall event, Tickled Pink, CRW Graphics has been at the helm for the past two years, donating the printing and mailing service for our invitation. A unique celebration with equally unique printing needs to capture the fun of our teen communityand the maturity with which they embrace their responsibility to empower the breast cancer movement, for two wonderful years, CRW has delivered it all with professional excellence and personal passion that radiates from every drop of ink!

Last, but not least, we tip our hat to Quaker Chroma Imaging, who has been supporting The Affiliate for over a decade with everything from their donation of the cherished "SURVIVORS" banner that heralds our Race for the Cure Parade of Pink, to, more recently printing all our Pink Tie Ball and Tickled Pink signage for a next-to-nothing cost at an out-of-this-world quality.

Not only do all the companies in our 'Alphabet Soup" make the donations above, but year-round they serve The Affiliate while offering truly incredible discounts, finding other ways to donate and help us cut costs, putting in hours beyond 9-to-5, and volunteering their time to serve on committees and help out at our events. And so, you can see, these companies are much more that just vendors... they are true FRIENDS to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate and everyone counting on us to save lives and empower the cures.

Elaine Grobman Promoted to CEO

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 21:49:54 -0400

The Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure^® Board of Directors unanimously voted Tuesday night to promote Elaine I. Grobman from Executive Director to Chief Executive Officer. For the past twenty-two years, Grobman has served as Executive Director of Susan G. Komen for the Cure activities in the Delaware Valley and surrounding communities, starting with the first Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure^® in 1991.

In 2001 Grobman was instrumental in the founding of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, serving as the Executive Director and quickly growing it into one of the most successful Komen Affiliates nationwide. Now, as CEO, Grobman will continue her Executive Director's responsibilities as well as head up new strategies to generate growing corporate and philanthropic support for the Affiliate, empower more grass-roots organizations in their community breast health initiatives, and embrace larger and more diverse populations in critical education, early detection and support services.

"Designating Elaine as CEO is not just a recognition of her performance in making our Affiliate one of the most innovative and successful Komen Affiliates in the country, but it is also an acknowledgement of her role as a leader in the breast cancer movement locally and nationally," said Joanne Calabria, Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Board President. " Elaine has established Susan G. Komen for the Cure as one of the most influential and trusted organizations in our region and continues to grow the organization and its partnerships in spite of difficult economic times. She has earned this recognition though her hard work, tireless dedication and creative approach to fulfilling the Komen Promise to create a world without breast cancer."

The promotion to CEO was effective immediately. Grobman has transformed philanthropy into a life-long career filled with many impressive firsts and milestones for numerous Delaware Valley non-profit organizations, especially those promoting the health, welfare and advancements of women in society. She identifies the beginning of her career when she, as a young, newly married woman, served as Vice President of Hadassah Bridgeport, NJ. Before getting involved with Komen, Grobman was active in many noteworthy fundraising and relief endeavors ranging from helping to build schools in Israel, to helping develop and implement one of the first substantial Aids fundraisers in Philadelphia.

Under her leadership, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate has become a recognized leader of the breast cancer movement in its thirteen-county service area, and received numerous accolades from Susan G. Komen for the Cure for its innovation in tackling tough breast cancer issues, as well as its impact among multiple generations, both male and female. Over the past twenty-one years, the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure and Komen Philadelphia Affiliate has accomplished the following:

Distributed more than $49 million in grants to empower the breast cancer movement locally through its community grants program
Empowered groundbreaking research by contributing approximately $17 million to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure grant program
Funded more than 110,000 free mammograms for women in need

"I am honored and humbled by our Board of Directors granting me the designation of Chief Executive Officer... the trust they have placed in me only serves to further elevate my passion for this cause and reinforces my personal and professional dedication to leading all people out of the darkness of breast cancer," said Grobman. "It leaves me speechless to think that what started with a handful of dedicated people, a few contacts and a typewriter has grown into a local movement that has embraced millions of people not just in the power to face and beat a breast cancer diagnosis, but to live in the HOPE that one day soon this disease will be no more a threat to them or their children than the common cold.

"While I graciously accept the CEO title, I cannot nor ever will accept one ounce of credit for the progress our community has made in beating down this horrible disease. From our staff, volunteers, sponsors and fundraisers... to our Board leadership through the years and the support of Komen National... to each woman and her family who courageously fight breast cancer one day at a time... every step forward is one we ALL take - and celebrate - together."

Pink Ribbon of the Month, October: Philly Pretzel Factory

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 18:00:45 -0400

That's because once the team got their feet wet with their first fundraiser, like the pretzel dough they craft every day, their activities, fundraising - and impact - for the cause kept rising and rising! Plus, more and more people got 'tied up' with them... from store owners and staff, to customers.

Philly Pretzel Factory's activism in the breast cancer movement offers a lesson for us all, demonstrating how, with a little creativity and a lot of passion, the things we do every day can grow into a very powerful manifestation of the Komen Promise.

Last October, what started our to be a simple $1 per pretzel fundraiser turned into an incredible fundraising and awareness-raising campaign. In addition to the $1 ribbon-shaped pretzels sold throughout October, the 100 participating Philly Pretzel Factory locations also sold paper in memory/in honor of ribbons to raise money, and offered customers breast health literature. Select stores also set up stations with Komen Philadelphia Affiliate representatives, opening even more doors for us to educate, motivate and empower multiple generations in various neighborhoods to fight back against breast cancer.

For their October 2009 campaign, Philly Pretzel Factory presented The Affiliate with an impressive check for $11,541. But, that's not all! In February at our Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure Kick-Off Party, they surprised us with another huge check for their 2010 compaign... amounting to $20,000!

"When I asked how they generated such impressiveresults, Philly Pretzel Factory told us it was a true team effort among their store owners, managers and employees... they invested energy and heart non-stop!" said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "That is true dedication, and a very inspiring demonstration of what it means to be fully passionate about the quest to end breast cancer. We are incredibly fortunate and grateful to have the support of the Philly Pretzel Factory team as we continue ahead on this journey."

This October 1-31, in celebration of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Philly Pretzel Factory is aiming even higher with their 'Twisting 4 A Cause' campaign, hoping to surpass their 2010 fundraising by 100% and raise close to $40,000. With their passion and energy, we are as confident in their success as we are in one day soon living in a world without breast cancer!

Get details on 'Twisting 4 A Cause,' including a list of participating locations.

Pictured (top): Marty Ferrill, Vice President, Philadelphia Pretzel Factory presents their check to Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate at the 2011 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure Kick-Off Celebration.

CTCA Teams up with Talk Philly to Bring You Important Cancer News

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 16:11:42 -0400

This resource is made possible by a teaming up of two of The Affiliate's most loyal and generous sponsors, CBS 3 and Cancer Treatment Centers of America - the Champion Sponsor of the Promise of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. Twice a month a CTCA healthcare professional will appear on Talk Philly to discuss an important topic in the world of breast and other cancers.

To see these insightful interviews, tune into Talk Philly on CBS 3 at noon on the dates below, or click on the links to view video of the interviews:

Wednesday, August 10: Detecting colorectal cancer early
Wednesday, August 24: Having a mastectomy when you don't have breast cancer
Wednesday, September 7: Herbs & Supplements - Interaction with Chemotheraphy
Wednesday, September 21: Treating Lung Cancer, CTCA's 'superhero' doctors
Wednesday, October 5: The benefits of Vitamin D and fighting cancer
Wednesday, October 19: Taking Action Against Cancer, what to ask & do when you hear you have cancer
Wednesday, November 2: Breast cancer & drinking alcohol - is there a link, who needs to be concerned?
Wednesday, November 30: How to Forgive - Achieving inner health through forgiveness of others & yourself
Wednesday, December 7: Healthy Eating During The Holidays - considering the needs of cancer patients & tips for everyone
Wednesday, December 21: Aggressive Types of Breast Cancer & New Treatments for Them
Wednesday, January 18: Explanation of Genetic Testing
Wednesday, January 25: Deep Tissue Hyperthermia at Cancer Treatment Centers of America
Wednesday, February 1: Helping Cancer Patients get a Better Night Sleep
Wednesday, February 15: Coping with heart disease and a cancer diagnosis
Wednesday, March 21: Personalized Medicine
Thursday, March 29: Organic foods, how to read them, when to use them, their role in health and healing
Wednesday, April 4: Better Questions, Better Care, Actor James Denton helps CTCA launch a new initiative to empower cancer patients
Wednesday, April 18: Do your Homework Before Choosing a Hospital. Steven Standiford, MD, FACS, National Director of Surgical at CTCA gives steps for being an educated... and empowered... patient
Wednesday, May 2: Lymphedema and Breast Cancer. Kathryn Doran DPT, CLT educated about symptoms, causes and treatment

Affiliate Receives Two Community Honors

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 11:54:38 -0400

On November 9, The Affiliate will receive the 2011 Outstanding Foundation of the Year award from the Greater Philadelphia Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP-GPC). The award will be presented during the organization's National Philanthropy Day celebration, which recognizes non-profit organizations and institutions that enrich the region, and honors the extraordinary people in our community who exemplify the very best in philanthropy. The Affiliate thanks Abington Health for nominating us for this prestigious honor.

In addition, on November 3 at their Pink Playground fundraising event, Bebashi will present The Affiliate with their Advocates' Award. In doing so, Bebashi recognizes the progress our two organizations have made together in bridging the breast health information and services gap between life-saving breast cancer resources and medically underserved women of color in the metropolitan Philadelphia area. The main conduit of these achievements is Bebashi's program "Our Bodies", supported by The Affiliate through our Community Grants Program.

"We are certainly appreciative to the leaders of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and Bebashi for bestowing the cherished honors upon us; it is incredibly humbling for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate to be recognized by two organizations with such great integrity and deep-rooted commitment to bettering our community," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

"We also thank fully and sincerely, every member of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family - from staff to volunteers, sponsors to fundraisers - for their advocacy for our mission and the loyal support that drives every step we take in our quest for the cures. We share these honors with all of them in appreciation for all they do to empower us... so that we can, in turn, can empower all generations in the fight against breast cancer."

Pink Ribbon of the Month, September: SugarHouse Casino

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 12:17:10 -0400

When SugarHouse was getting established in our community, our 2011 Race season was just wrapping up, the deadline for sponsorships had passed. There were many considerations to be made throughout the SugarHouse organization, and authorizations to be obtained. Plus, many Race teams had already been forming and fundraising for months.

However, taking to heart the proverbial, 'Where there's a will, there's a way,' the team at SugarHouse put their heads together, and pooled their passion for the cause. In record time, Team Sugarhouse organized a great presence at the Race, gathering a team of over 60 members, and raising thousands of dollars. Moreover, they captured the hearts of onlookers and other walkers with their team spirit and a big, pink banner proudly declaring, 'Philly Loves a Cure!'

Once Team SugarHouse crossed that Race for the Cure finish line, they never looked back. In fact, it soon became clear that, for them, the Race finish line was only just the beginning of their activism in our community's breast cancer movement.

On August 9, the casino hosted a "first-ever, can't-miss-it, experience-beyond-belief, hands-down winner of a party" for the entire Komen Philadelphia Affiliate volunteer family. An incredible celebration of the people who make our achievements possible, SugarHouse welcomed over 800 guests, feting them with an amazing buffet, private accommodations in their Refinery restaurant, complimentary parking and $10 of free slots play. More than what they gave, it was how the entire SugarHouse family gave it that sets them apart - with a sincere appreciation and respect for the important roles our volunteers play in the fight against breast cancer.

"From the moment we asked them to host the party, the team at SugarHouse jumped right in with their creativity and resourcefulness to make sure this event outdid any other volunteer celebration," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "Immediately, they instilled great confidence, allowing us to hand over most party responsibilities to their team, so that we could focus our time and resources on our mission work. And, certainly we were thrilled with the results!"

"It is their depth of understanding of the Komen Promise, and appreciation for the monumental challenges we face every day in the quest for the cures, that make SugarHouse an invaluable supporter to The Affiliate and the communities we serve. And, of course, it goes without saying how much their generosity also contributes to our ability to save lives."

Their marketing may declare, 'Philly Loves a Winner!', but it is clear the heart of SugarHouse Casino recognizes that in the breast cancer movement, 'Philly Loves a Cure!' With each passing week, they display even greater generosity and loyalty to the Komen Promise... and we both thank them and look forward to journeying every closer to a world without breast cancer with SugarHouse by our side.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, August: The 'Tripod'

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 19:34:53 -0400

More than just 'making pictures' of what's going on, Dan, Kurt and Howard invest their time, talent and resources so that the entire Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family can relive the memories and be inspired as we move ahead in our quest for the cures. In fact, when many of us wrap up an event and go home to relax after a hard day's work, our photographers keep at it, spending several more hours in their studios reviewing the photos they took, prepping them for our use, and sending them to The Affiliate for near-immediate posting on our website and Facebook.

Moreover, they make their photos available to The Affiliate, our sponsors, supporters and volunteers at no cost - helping to assure every possible penny is available to support our mission. This saves The Affiliate significant costs, especially when it comes to every billboard, ad, website and other outlets that rely on powerful photos to help generate awareness, promote The Affiliate, educate and raise funds.

While these generous donations are invaluable to our family and our mission, perhaps what most distinguishes the 'Tripod' is the heart they put into their volunteerism. As loyal activists in the cause, all three men clearly have a special 'viewfinder' when they take pictures, which allows them to see what will truly motivate, encourage and inspire the community. Each has developed this gift in his own time, Dan beginning his involvement with the Affiliate over twenty years ago, and Kurt and Howard about a decade ago.

Certainly, Dan, Kurt and Howard each have their own distinct styles. But if you look at any of their creations, you don't just see what happened... you feel the unique, powerful spirit of Komen for the Cure. Through their eyes, you experience the joy of survivors, the pride of thousands being educated about early detection, the discovery as strangers become new friends in the cause, the celebration as an entire community defeats a horrible disease. As the saying goes, all these things are 'worth a million words' when it comes to encouraging greater support and activism for the fight.

From bringing smiles to the faces of their subjects, to embracing all generations in hope and support - these gentlemen and their art are truly making a difference as they live out the Komen Promise. Always available to assure every event is captured on film - morning, noon or night, weekday or weekend - and meet every need we have for photography, Dan, Kurt and Howard are truly selfless volunteers. They never ask for a dime, never seek credit or personal promotion, but instead repeatedly express that the opportunity to give back to our community is the best 'payment' they could ever receive.

The Affiliate also sincerely thanks two more photographers who have lent their talents and invested their hearts for our cause through the years - Sandy Edelstein and Harris Sklar. And, again, we proudly honor with our Pink Ribbon and extend our appreciation to the 'Tripod' of Dan, Kurt and Howard for services that are critical to our mission, their continued activism and inspiration.

Pictured (top-bottom):

Dr. Kurt Bomze (left) and Dan Johnson taking a rare post in front of the camera the 2011 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure.

Howard Kanowitz, Esq. on 'candid' camera with the Honorable Lynne Abraham at the Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball.

Enjoy these photographers' favorite pictures from Race day 2011.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, July: Barbara Zeid

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 10:15:34 -0400

So many words can be used to capture the very special role Barbara played in the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family. Supporter. Philanthropist. Advocate. Activist. Sister. Visionary. However, there is one that stands out above them all: survivor

Barbara was a survivor of breast cancer, but she was also a survivor in life - and she embraced every challenge that came her way as fuel for her activism in the breast cancer movement. While others may have stepped back and said, 'I can't. I have my own troubles to worry about. You'll have to find someone else.', when it came to our cause, Barbara always said, 'I will. We can. We are all one family in this fight.'

The Affiliate's journey with Barbara started at the very beginning - twenty-one years ago when a handful of people set out to organize the first Komen Race for the Cure in Philadelphia. Barbara was a true visionary, not willing to settle for just holding an event, but believing in the Race as something much more. She embraced the Race as the start of a movement through which women would find strength, families would find comfort, and communities would find confidence that our world no longer had to be ruled by breast cancer.

A nurse at Albert Einstein, and raising a family on her own, in those early years, Barbara still found time to come into our offices every day of the week, and often on weekends. At times, struggling to make ends meet, she never accepted a penny of pay, and frequently donated to the cause. From typing (yes, on an actual typewriter!), to stuffing envelopes, to 'taking to the streets' to help promote the Race, in Barbara's eyes, every task was a critical one - and nothing was beyond her willingness. As the Race and The Affiliate grew, so did Barbara's energy for our work. However, even as tremendous as her ardor was, even that was far outpaced by her extraordinary love for the women - past present and future - for whom we pursued the cures. Her daughter, Lori, summarizes it beautifully:

"Mom loved family and dedicated herself to charitable causes in a true Florence Nightingale manner... she always touched the lives of others in positive ways without ever asking for, or expecting, a thing in return."

That love - unconditional, unceasing, uninhibited by any challenge - is the legacy left to us by Barbara Zeid. Here, we share just one page from a full story of her life of giving back, making a difference, and both thinking and doing to revolutionize our community's breast cancer movement. In doing so, we hope all who read this can embrace the lessons Barbara taught us, and in some way - big or small - honor her by perpetuating her spirit in our own activism.

It was clear when facing hardship in her own life, Barbara found comfort in Susan G. Komen for the Cure... in empowering others to overcome their own challenges. In doing so, Barbara provided comfort and shelter for thousands against the darkness of breast cancer. The Affiliate is forever grateful that Barbara's light will continue to shine on our mission and in our lives.

Beloved mother and grandmother, Barbara is fondly remembered by her daughter, Lori, her husband, David, and their children Marc and Jason; and by her son, Randy, his wife, Tracey, and their children, Regan and Rhett. In her memory, Barbara's children share the following special message, which she left to them.

I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one.

I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when the day is done.

I'd like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways.

Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.

I'd like to the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun,

of happy memories that I leave when life is done.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, June: Philadelphia Federation of Teachers

Thu, 26 May 2011 16:57:38 -0400

Now, we are fairly certain Mr. Adams never dreamed the influence and effect on eternity of which he spoke would include revolutionizing the face of breast cancer. But that is exactly what the teachers in the PFT family are doing through their work with the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. From day one, PFT has shown our breast cancer community they are not afraid to dream big, and - as their 2011 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure team showed us - 'Walk the Walk!'

Under the leadership of Race Team Captain, and PFT Staff Representative, Joan McGowan, "PFT Walks the Walk" did, indeed, walk on Race day, doing the 5K at more than 50 members strong! Plus, their current team fundraising total is just a few dollars shy of $17,000 - putting them in the lead (by far) as the highest fundraising team in the Community Groups category.

While these two achievements are truly impressive, PFT's 2011 Race involvement is just a fraction of the impact they make on our community's fight against breast cancer - not to mention the global breast cancer movement. Like many of our Pink Ribbon honorees, PFT's actions take root in personal breast cancer missions. A few words about the key players help demonstrate why their passion for the cause runs so deeply:

Jerry T. Jordan, PFT President, lost his mother to breast cancer
Joan McGowan is Chair of the PFT Women's Rights Committee (among other roles); lost her mother to breast cancer; her aunt is a 2x survivor
Sally Rotenberg is a 5-year breast cancer survivor, 10+ year Race participant, and loyal Affiliate volunteer for over a decade
Susan Hyman is a 12-year breast cancer survivor, 20+ year Race participant and loyal Affiliate volunteer

And again, the tie that bonds them and distinguishes their support of The Affiliate is that they are TEACHERS (Sally and Susan, having retired from the School District in recent years). Their passion for education and empowering the future is one they integrate beautifully with their passion for ending breast cancer forever.

To that end, PFT has not only embraced the Dietz & Watson Pretty In Pig program, they have empowered it by focusing on the Philadelphia School district - from faculty, staff and administrators, to students, parents and siblings. Thanks to the PFT team, hundreds of our piglets have take up residence in classrooms, offices, desks and even at the PFT annual conference - and returned home to The Affiliate full of cash for the cures!

But, as we've been emphasizing, Jerry, Joan, Sally and Susan have dedicated their lives to education - and that dedication is thriving in their Pretty In Pig activities. Far beyond just 'collecting money for the cause,' the PFT team takes responsibility for sharing all the messages that bring that fundraising to life. You shouldn't be surprised to see Sally in front of a 4th grade classroom helping youngsters realize there are many organizations ready to help if a loved one is diagnosed with breast cancer.... or Joan organizing an awareness event for women teachers... or Susan distributing Komen literature and Race registrations at the PFT Health & Welfare conference... as just a few examples.

"The Philadelphia Federation of Teachers haven't only brought thousands of people into awareness about the work of Komen, they are making breast health awareness, education and practices a normal part of a quality education - for all generations," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "PFT is changing the face of breast cancer one student, one parent, one class room, and one community at a time... and empowering a future where this disease is no more a threat to any person than the common cold. The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate could not be more grateful or fortunate to have such a powerful, devoted group of supporters helping to advance our mission."

And so, The Affiliate thanks the members of our own volunteer and survivor families, Sally Rotenberg and Susan Hyman, along with the entire PFT family who has gotten behind the Komen Promise with extraordinary fundraising, passion, and a perpetual influence on our futures.

The Affiliate and PFT thank everyone on the Dietz & Watson Pretty In Pig School Fundraising Honor Roll. Click here to recognize the top achievers.

Pictured: The Philadelphia Federation of Teachers Team 'PFT Walks the Walk' puts their minds & hearts into action at the 2011 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure, making a symbolic donation to the "BIG PIG" for the nearly $17,000 they raised in support of the Race.

In Memory of Kim Eline

Mon, 23 May 2011 15:26:33 -0400

"A cherished member of the Wawa family, and undoubtedly a source of inspiration for the generous support Wawa extends to The Affiliate year after year, Kim lost her long, courageous battle with breast cancer on May 17, 2011.

"Kim's brave fight against the horrible disease brings even more motivation to our mission. Her spirit lives on in the Wawa family, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, and all those whose lives she touched who continue to wage this fight in her memory... she has left all of us her legacy of courage, hope and compassion," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

Kimberly Eline (nee Miller), 50 Longtime Wawa Employee Kimberly Eline (nee Miller) born June 25, 1960 and passed away May 17, 2011 at the age of 50 after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer. Kim was a 1978 graduate of Sun Valley H.S. She was a dedicated employee of Wawa, Inc. for 20 years, recently with the Supply Chain division. Kim enjoyed the esteem and adoration of many friends and acquaintances at Wawa. Her family appreciates the overwhelming outpouring of affection and support expressed during her illness.

She enjoyed shopping and supporting her children's activities. She was a terrific artist, a respected coworker and a great friend. She was smart, caring and funny, and will be missed immensely. Survivors: Devoted mother of Courtney, Kayla and Scott Eline of Garnet Valley. Beloved daughter of Bob and Nancy Miller of Glen Mills. Loved and respected by her brother Rob (Tina) Miller of Aston, her sister Michele Outten and nephew Hunter Outten both of Wilmington. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial contributions to be made to the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Pink Ribbon of the Month, May: Classic Cake

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 11:55:38 -0400

2011 marks the fourth consecutive year in which Co-owner, Jay Roseman, Executive Pastry Chef Robert Bennett and the Classic Cake team will cascade the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure in pink sweetness with a specially created celebration cake for the opening ceremonies, plus more than 6,000 pink-frosted cupcakes-enough for every breast cancer survivor participating in the opening Survivors Parade of Pink:

2008, Sweet Memories: the inaugural celebration cake, this sat at over 7 feet tall
2009, Share the Hope: a special 8-foot cake
2010, 20 Tiers for 20 Years: in celebration of the Race's 20-year milestone
A Big Pink Footprint: an 8-foot fully edible replica of a New Balance running shoe

In addition to the Race, the Cherry Hill-based Classic Cake - one of the area's most well known manufacturers of dessert specialties - furnishes thousands of pink-ribbon jumbo cookies that have become the hallmark of almost every Komen Philadelphia Affiliate event.

"Classic Cake's' very generous donations represent the celebration that is to be had at each event - whether we are educating and empowering women in need, or honoring our survivor family," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "More than just a beautiful sight to see... what Classic Cake creates allows us to say, yes, thousands of women are overcoming the odds, they earn a second chance at life, and we as a community are honored to share in their victory."

The Classic Cake story is rooted in much more than pink icing - The Affiliate's history goes back to the Roseman family vision for the very first Race for the Cure in Philadelphia, and twenty-one years of growing with us, celebrating our progress and empowering our victories against breast cancer. Jay's mother, Phyllis, was our first Race for the Cure Co-Chairperson in 1991... a breast cancer survivor who believed in the Race and to this day continues to be one of our most loyal activists.

For the Komen Philadelphia Race in 1991, Jay's company, TravelOne, was one of only about a dozen sponsors who embraced the founding vision of the Race, had the conviction that is would survive and thrive, and put his money behind it all.

Now, as Co-owner of Classic Cake, Jay pours his culinary and business resources into making the Race the success it is-contributing everything from funds, to product, to gift certificates for Race rewards and prizes, to the artistry of his award- winning pastry chef, Robert Bennett. Jay and Phyllis Roseman are also on hand year-round to provide anything and everything the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family needs, especially personal volunteer time.

Jay once told us why he supports The Affiliate, "Because of the integrity of Komen and the passion of everyone who is involved. Classic Cake knows this is where we belong-Komen is part of our family... and you simply don't walk away from family. We are here to stay until we can assure that all future generations will live freely in a world without breast cancer."

To Jay and the team a Classic Cake, we say THANK YOU, for not only being part of our family, but for empowering it with a legacy of tremendous hope and love.

Komen Introduces 'Promise Me': The Scent of Inspiration

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 19:50:58 -0400

THINK: An unprecedented marriage of beauty and charity.

Promise Me is the scent of compassion and courage. Susan G. Komen for the Cure® has partnered with TPR Holdings to launch Promise Me, the first and only proprietary fragrance to benefit breast cancer research. Promise Me offers a unique way to honor those who have been touched by breast cancer-a beautiful tribute to the bravery of each and every person who has been touched by this disease.

"The fragrance will give supporters a new way to participate in the breast cancer cause and is very important to our global reach," Komen for the Cure founder and CEO Nancy G. Brinker said. "Promise Me offers a natural fit," she added."My sister Susan was always passionate about fragrance. She had a great fashion sense."

Promise Me infuses the essence of Komen's promise to end breast cancer into a scent that truly benefits and brings hope to those suffering from the disease. Developed by Drom fragrances and famed perfumer Jean Claude Delville, Promise Me speaks to strong, courageous women who live life to the fullest. The sophisticated floriental opens with a fresh burst of mandarin, bergamot, and blood orange. Its feminine heart evokes softness and beauty with pink peony, wild orchid, and rosewood. The scent lingers on white patchouli and musk for a warm, sensual finish. Designed by Chad Lavigne and housed in an elegant glass vessel with interior floral motif, Promise Me is a stunning display item and gift.

Brian Robinson, founder of ZIRH Men's Skincare and president of TPR Holdings, is proud to join forces with Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

"With fifteen years in the beauty industry, I wanted to lend my expertise to this profound cause," says Robinson. "With the launch of Promise Me, we're one step closer to finding a cure."

Each Promise Me fragrance includes an insert with Komen's educational messages and the contribution each purchase makes to the organization, as well as a limited edition scented bracelet. In 2011, TPR Holdings has committed to donate a minimum of $1,000,000 to Komen for breast cancer research, education, screening and treatment.

PROMISE ME IS AVAILABLE NOW

There are currently four Promise Me options from which to choose:

Eau de Parfum, 100 ml $59.00: available at Dillard's, Lord & Taylor and HSN.com
Eau de Toilette, 100ml $29.99: available at promisemefragrance.com
Eau de Toilette, 30ml $19.99: available at promisemefragrance.com
Coming soon: Eau de Toilette Gift Set

Order online now for yourself, and every special woman in your life

ABOUT TPR HOLDINGS LLC: TPR Holdings LLC (TPR) is a NYC based operator in the consumer products industry. TPR's traditional operations include scalable mass and prestige opportunities in health, beauty and wellness categories. TPR has also provided transition services for large consumer products companies including Shiseido Cosmetics and Procter & Gamble. TPR principals have founded and developed such international brands as ZIRH Men's Skincare, John Varvatos Fragrances and French Connection Beauty. TPR recently acquired oral care brand Sweet Breath which has sold over 1 billion units since its launch.

Komen Commits Nearly $58 Million for Research in 2011

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 16:10:20 -0400

Developing genetic interventions that target the immune system and creating personalized cancer vaccines are just two of more than 80 innovative research grants being funded this year by Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. The world's largest breast cancer organization announced it will fund $55 million toward research grants at 56 institutions across the United States and internationally in 2011.

Among those institutions are five in the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate service area:

Lankenau Institute for Medical Research
Thomas Jefferson University
University of Pennsylvania (2 grants)
Wistar Institute

"Our goal at Komen is to fund research with the greatest potential to make a difference and save lives in the shortest period of time. That means putting our dollars toward cutting-edge research that is high-risk, with potentially huge rewards," said Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, founder and CEO of Komen for the Cure.

"We thank and congratulate the doctors in our community for demonstrating the integrity, ingenuity and dedication to the cures for breast cancer that merited these grants," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "These grant awards are another powerful way Susan G. Komen for the Cure connects local communities with global resources to bring us closer to the reality of life without breast cancer."

Click here for additional details and the complete list of grantees and funded programs

Affiliate Welcomes New Board Treasurer & Members

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 18:02:52 -0400

"We are very enthused and fortunate to have elevated Ron to Treasurer, as well as have four new members in place who, together, possess a powerful diversity of experience, plus fine reputations in our community for the levels of integrity they demonstrate in their professional and private lives," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

"The recent economic times has have placed our organization in a challenging environment, with a tremendous number of women having insufficient or no medical benefits for breast health... and families having to choose food over healthcare," Grobman continued. "However, with such a resourceful, impassioned Board leading our activism, the community can be confident that the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate will continue to make significant progress in the fight against breast cancer as we bring equality of care to enrich and save lives throughout our thirteen-county service area."

Before starting their positions, each new Board member has had special involvement in support of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. In addition, Becker, Kellem and Smith are members of the newly founded Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Leadership Fundraising committee and, as such, will be highly active in generating substantial funding over the next several years.

Click here to learn more about each new member's prior activism with The Affiliate, professional background and community involvement.

The position of Komen Philadelphia Board President will continue to be filled by Joanne Calabria, Vice President, Public Affairs for CBS Television Stations. Continuing on as Board Vice President is Lisa Wollan, Head of Consumer Insights & Brand Strategy for Wawa; and as Board Secretary, Barbara A Orr, Executive Vice President, Poretta & Orr, Inc. Strategic Marketing, Events, Exhibits. Click here for a complete list of Board Members.

"Each one of our Board officers and members is clearly dedicated to being a mobilizing force in the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family, and has fully embraced the Komen vision of a world without breast cancer," said Joanne Calabria, President. "We have a knowledgeable, well rounded and passionate board, backed by a community that is extremely dedicated to fighting this terrible disease. The future is certainly full of hope and more victories in the breast cancer movement."

Pink Ribbon of the Month, April: Skylar Clemens

Sat, 02 Apr 2011 18:37:54 -0400

At five years old, Skylar should have been the one fussing in the barber chair, while his mom smiled lovingly watching on. Instead, Skylar was the one holding her hand, giving her courage and 'being brave with her' as the hairdresser shaved the few sparse strands the chemo left behind. Sloane Six's breast cancer diagnosis launched a personal mission for Skylar that undoubtedly will be his life-long purpose. And if there's one thing that can mobilize anyone to support this year's Race for the Cure, it's the story of this passionate seven year old.

In 2009, Skylar and Sloane participated in their first Susan G. Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure as breast cancer survivor and co-survivor. It was Skylar's inspiration to form a Race team, Skylar's Neeya Team, to embrace family and friends in the celebration and drive fundraising. He even designed a t-shirt, which he wore to that first Race... and to school... around town...anywhere he could to generate awareness! The shirt displayed a prescription pad from one of Sloane's doctors with a clear, bold diagnosis, 'I Am Going To Be Cured!'

Every year since, the two have co-captained their Race team of about 15 family members and friends, which, in 2010 raised $7,907. And if you think this is a case where 'Mom does all the work,' think again! Certainly, Sloane is an incredible activist in her own right with the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, but in his own ways, Skylar keeps up with her step by step. He does media interviews to help generate awareness, continuously helps educate his teachers and classmates at Penn View Christian School in Souderton, PA, holds fundraisers, works very hard at gathering donations, volunteers for many Affiliate events, and, like so many adults, he is a support for friends and family dealing with breast cancer... because he understands their pain.

"Even at such a young age, Skylar is a remarkable boy with a great love in his heart and dedication to making a difference in the fight against breast cancer," said Sloane.

Since beating breast cancer with his mom, Skylar has had two other close friends face tough battles with the disease. As he fights with them, he fears again for his mother's life - but this remarkable young man refuses to let fear get the best of him. Instead, he digs in... full of ideas, courage and hope.

One of these women is his kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Meyers, who, when Skylar walked into class in his pink 'I Am Going To Be Cured' t-shirt, shared that she was a breast cancer survivor, too. Recently, she suffered a recurrence, which has moved Sklyar greatly and elevated his passion even more. In her honor, Skylar has attacked his 2011 Race fundraising with a vengeance, channeling much of his energies into selling New-car raffle tickets prior to Race day and at the Race, and hosting a barbecue picnic fundraiser on his family's farm.

"Skylar is a very special human being who has been thrown into many responsibilities in his young life that many will never have," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "In a very remarkable way, he somehow has used every hardship to enrich his life, as well as the lives of all those around him, myself included. When you look into his eyes, you see the endless hope of a child, but also the man who is set on leading this crusade of our until breast cancer is eradicated from our world forever."

And so, this month it is our honor to recognize Skylar Clemens with our Pink Ribbon. For everyone in the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family, he is a true blessing and inspiration... and we thank him for his friendship as well as the great energy and power he infuses into our mission every day.

Pictured above:

(1) Skylar presents the fundraising check for Team Neeya to Chris May at the 2010 Call for the Cure on CBS 3.

(2) Skylar encourages guests to get excited over the new BidPal technology during the 2010 Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball silent auction.

New Relationship with Level Up

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 21:17:07 -0500

Here's how it works:

A unique Level Up, Level 1 package for a local restaurant, entertainment experience or other service provider is specially created to be paired with the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate as the benefitting charity. The package typically includes an amazing discount, available for purchase for just one week.

For all Level 1 deals purchased in the designated time span, Level Up will donate a percentage to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. Then you, as a Level Up, Level 1 participant of the deal will have the opportunity to 'level up' your benefits for future experiences at the restaurant/facility.

"It's both an honor and a tremendous opportunity for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate to be a part of this innovative program," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "Level Up is not only providing us with a great way to raise funds for the breast cancer movement, but their creative ideas, depth of resources and commitment are revolutionizing how businesses and philanthropic causes can grow together ... it's a win-win for everyone in our community."

Be sure to check this website for future Level Up opportunities to support the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

ABOUT LEVELUP

LevelUp is a better way for local businesses and consumers to connect. Consumers, try

out a ton of awesome places with a great deal and then go back to the places you love

with an even better deal or more exclusive experience. Merchants, get introduced to a

large local community of people who not only visit your business, but are actively invited

to keep coming back and "level-up" to become regulars... the best type of customers.

With 20MM in funding from Google Ventures, Highland Capital Partners and Balderton

Capital, LevelUp is based in Boston, MA with permanent satellite offices in each of the

communities they serve. LevelUp is founded by the same folks who brought you

SCVNGR and you can learn more about them at http://TheLevelUp.com..

Pink Ribbon of the Month, March: Charles Chen

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 16:47:31 -0500

Charles, the owner of Charles Plaza - one of China Town's finest restaurants distinguished for its classic and healthy cuisine - has been a very special supporter of The Affiliate for twenty-one years. The story he has to offer us is one of not just following your dreams, but truly believing in them... so much so that anyone who shares the dreams knows without a doubt they will come to fruition. His story takes us from his childhood dream of being a healer in Shanghai, to his achievement of his own 'American Dream' as a successful businessman, to his ongoing passion for the dream we all share - a world without breast cancer.

The February, Charles Plaza hosted The Affiliate's Winter P.I.N. Stripes event, Let's Do Dumplings. In addition to astounding approximately fifty young professionals with his fabulous food, healthy cooking philosophy and knowledge, and perfection of the art of the 'dumpling fold,' Charles made a profound impact with his zest for life and the single philosophy he offered when asked what advice he'd give to young professionals for achieving goals and realizing their dreams.

Without hesitation, Charles said simply, but with incredible impact, value every friendship... always remember, making friends makes dreams happen.

No friendship demonstrates this point more powerfully than the friendship Charles and the Charles Plaza family have extended to the Affiliate. Charles was one of the very first friends to believe in our vision of the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure when we first started in 1991, and to contribute in his own special way to our success. For years, he has also been a key contributor to the success of The Affiliate's outreach in Asian communities - catering our Asian-American Women's Breast Health Awareness Day, an event at which Charles feeds over 1,000 people annually, as well as other Affiliate events and fundraisers.

But through all his contributions, Charles does much more than feed the body - he nourishes the mind and spirit to be open to the power each person has to defeat breast cancer. With his food, and all the love he puts into it, Charles helps us create a comfort level for the Asian men and women we seek to educate... allowing us to both embrace the culture and integrate it with choices that promote breast health and a full, rich life.

A 'barefoot doctor in China' who is now a chef, successful business man and physical therapist, Charles to this day is know for his healing hands. However, in the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family, we thank him for his healing HEART... a heart that believes in the dream of an end to breast cancer forever, and beats to inspire a man that will go to any length to make it come true.

Pictured, from 'Let's Do Dumplings: The 'healing hands' of Charles Chen which helped hundreds in China return to health and continue to do the same for U.S. residents today, utilize the same gentle touch in teaching young professionals to fold dumplings.

2011-2012 Grantees

Sat, 26 Feb 2011 16:19:19 -0500

They are connecting them with the resources that enrich and save lives, educating entire communities, replacing helplessness with hope, and empowering all generations and cultures to live in a world with breast cancer without living in fear... regardless of race, financial ability, education or background.

In total, the grantee programs funded are expected to accomplish the following:

Referrals to mammograms: 6,161
Mammograms performed: 3,864
Clinical breast exams: 4,365
Outreach contacts: 40,849
Education/counseling contacts: 8,237

Abington Memorial Hospital: Closing the Gap

Albert Einstein Healthcare Network: Women In Need (WIN) Program

Allentown Health Bureau: Breast Cancer Education & Screening for Uninsured, Underinsured & Hispanic Women

Arab-American Development Corporation: Lil Shifa'a (For the Cure)

Bayhealth Medical Center: Breast Screening & Treatment Partnership Program

BEBASHI - Transition to Hope: Our Bodies

Biden Breast Health Initiative: Breast Health Awareness Targeting African American High School Girls in Sussex County, Delaware

The Breathing Room Foundation: Temporary Gap Funding - Giving Hope

Cambodian Association of Greater Philadelphia: Breast Health Education & Support Services

Cancer Support Community of the Greater Lehigh Valley: Health Living After Breast Cancer

Christiana Care Health Services: The Pink Ribbon Breast Program: Delaware's Comprehensive Community Network

The Consortium: Health Opportunities that Promote Empowerment (HOPE)

Cooper University Hospital: Camden County Cancer Screening Project

Crozer Regional Cancer Center: Crozer Cares

Delaware County Regional Cancer Center: Delco Cares

Delaware Valley Community Health: DVCH Women's Health Project

Drexel University College of Medicine: Women's Health Project

Greater Philadelphia Overseas Chinese Association: Breast Health Education & Breast Cancer Prevention Program for Underinsured & Uninsured Ethnic Chinese Women

Jefferson Kimmel Cancer Center: Jefferson's Breast Cancer Screening & Treatment Program

Lancaster General Hospital: Lancaster General Health - Breast Health Awareness Outreach, Education, Screening and Support Project

Living Through Cancer Foundation: In the Looking Glass - Living Through Cancer

Mazzoni Center: Special Outreach to Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Communities

Metropolitan Area Neighborhood Nutrition Alliance (MANNA): Home-delivered Meals for People with Breast Cancer

National Nursing Centers Consortium: Southwest Breast Health Initiative

Our Lady of Lourdes Health Foundation: Lourdes Pretty in Pink Initiative

Philadelphia Corporation for Aging: Passing on the Wisdom

Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Ambulatory Health Services: Breast Screening & Treatment Program

Practice Without Pressure: Women's Health Initiative

Puerto Rican Unity for Progress: Proyecto Salud Para Mujeres

Sacred Heart Hospital: Allentown's BBC - Beating Breast Cancer

SEAMAAC: Breast Health Awareness & Cancer Prevention Program

Southeast Pennsylvania Area Health Education Center: A Program of Breast Health Education & Screening for Latinas in Chester County

Thomas Jefferson University Hospital: Breast Friends

Unemployment Information Center: Breast Health Navigator for Uninsured Philadelphians

Virtua: Breast Navigation - Reducing Barriers to Care

The Wellness Community of Delaware: Learn, Share,Thrive

Young Survival Coalition of Greater Philadelphia: Education & Support for Young Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer

YWCA of Bethlehem: Lehigh County Neighbor to Neighbor

Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 10:10:00 -0400

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate is thrilled - and extremely grateful - to announce that our 'Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer' video sponsor, UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania (UHC) will double its sponsorship, potentially contributing an additional $100,000 to The Affiliate to empower the cures for breast cancer if the video reaches 8 million views. UHC already donated $100,000 to The Affiliate when they video reached 1 million views October 2010.

Now, we need everyone out there to DO IT ALL AGAIN - view Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer and encourage everyone you can to do the same to help us reach these important benchmarks:

5 million Youtube views: UHC donates $50,000 to The Affiliate

8 million Youtube views: UHC will donate another $50,000

"The compelling message behind the 'Team Ra-Ras' video is to help unite individuals across the globe to raise awareness about breast cancer and to help end this disease," said Sue Schick, CEO, UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania. "UnitedHealthcare is honored to take part in this inspirational campaign, and we are committed to keeping the momentum going to help make the Komen vision of a world without breast cancer a reality."

JUMP IN TO THE TEAM RA-RAS FUN & EMPOWERMENT!

View it now

How-To & Tools for You to help us reach our goal

Learn more about the new UHC commitment with the official press release announcement

Re-live the story of how 'Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer' came to life

Video Time Line: saving lives at the speed of light!

Video Galleries: special messages from Jay Sean, UHC, Team Ra-Ras survivors & more

Photo Gallery

Purchase your own Komen-Ribbon Pink Rhinestone Tee: featured in the video

See it featured on Dance On, January 13, 2011

PICTURED ABOVE: UnitedHealthcare makes their first donation as the exclusive sponsor of 'Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer'... with more to come as video views continue to climb! Pictured (l-r): Sue Schick, CEO, UnitedHealthcare of Pennsylvania; Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, Founder & CEO of Susan G. Komen for the Cure; Derek Nicoll, Vice-President of Marketing, Northeast Region, UHC; and Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director, Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, February: Neil Stein

Sat, 29 Jan 2011 14:51:55 -0500

That distinction itself speaks volumes about why we've chosen Neil for the Pink Ribbon of the Month and the Victor Dunoff Volunteer of the Year Award - for, in just two decades, Neil has accomplished a level of activism in the breast cancer movement that takes most people a full lifetime to achieve. His value to our community's fight against breast cancer stems from both what he does as well as how he does it: with an extraordinary passion and steadfast conviction that in his life time he will see the disease become no more threatening than the common cold.

Last year, we honored Fred Stein with our Pink Ribbon of the Month. Connection? Yes. Fred is Neil's father, and introduced Neil to the Komen family when Fred 'enlisted' him to help him orchestrate the very first Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure. Just ten years old at the time, Neil gave the event all he had - investing endless hours Race Saturday and Sunday. And, while we certainly acknowledge that his father's love for the cause helped to inspire him, from that first Race day in 1991, Neil directed his activism in his own way - getting more deeply involved year after year, and establishing his own legacy in the history of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The Affiliate's mission in the quest for the cures has been enriched by Neil in a way that moves us to call him a SON to the Komen family. From our Board of Directors, to our staff, to our families of volunteers, survivors and supporters, Neil is treasured beyond measure. We could fill pages explaining why he is so valuable to us all - for the reasons encompass twenty-one years of loyal service, starting with our very first Race, and leaving unfinished chapters. An event producer and multimedia coordinator for the Creative Group, Neil continues to generously invest his time, ideas, professional abilities, personal talents and heart whenever, however and wherever we're in need of them.

Neil might say that, in the past twenty-one years, he feels in some ways he's 'grown up' with The Affiliate. Well, in many ways, The Affiliate has 'grown up' with him as well... and in fact, we've evolved because of Neil's contributions. Time and again, Neil has helped to take The Affiliate to the next place we need to be, by, for example serving as a Chairperson of our P.I.N. Stripes initiative for young professionals.

"I look back on that 'little boy' on Eakins Oval in 1991 -- so full of energy and ambition to help his dad -- and then relive the years between now and then," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "He has grown into a confident, young man with a unique and wonderful combination of strong morals, commitment to leading his generation, enthusiasm for learning from the generations before him, and devotion to embracing everyone in the Komen Promise to end breast cancer forever."

So, we proudly name Neil Stein our Pink Ribbon of the Month, looking upon him as the man who fights every day for each woman - past, present and future - with the passion and commitment of a loving son.

Pictured (bottom): Neil Stein with his mother, Abbie, at the 2010 Teens for the Cure^® Tickled Pink^®

Pink Ribbon of the Month, January: PA Horticultural Society

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 10:38:52 -0500

Not only is what the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society (PHS) brings to The Affiliate full of inspiration for every activist in the fight against breast cancer, but our relationship also offers an important lesson about how two not-for-profit organizations-with seemingly totally different missions-can find new power and successes simply by thinking creatively, sharing their resources and opening their hearts to the possibilities.

"Many people wonder what another non-profit organization could possibly do to help us raise money for the fight against breast cancer," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "The first time The Affiliate met with the PHS, I knew they possessed a passion for the Komen Promise that was far beyond something you can put a dollar value on. They never asked 'how' would it get done, but instead 'how much' can we do to bring our world closer to being rid of breast cancer forever."

"In fact, a relationship like ours-both of us being no-profits-is driving The Affiliate and PHS teams to unearth resources neither one of us knew we had, because we can't depend on someone simply 'writing a check' to help us achieve our shared goals of generating funds and awareness for our missions. So, again, you can see why it's impossible to quantify the value of our relationship."

As one of its first generous contributions, PHS is giving The Affiliate the opportunity to be part of the 2011 Philadelphia International Flower Show. At the event (March 6-13), The Affiliate will have a kiosk in a high-traffic location, allowing us to connect with millions of people, register them for the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure and educated them about Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Also, for a $2 donation to The Affiliate, you can get a pink ribbon to tie around your favorite tree to honor or celebrate a loved one.

At our Race, PHS will have a presence on Sponsors Alley, encouraging Race goers to 'Get Planted in the Cures' with a unique opportunity to support the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate AND a greener environment. In addition, at their table, for a $2 donation to The Affiliate, you can get a pink ribbon to tie around your favorite tree to honor or celebrate a loved one.

The activities we are sharing this March and May are just the beginning - you'll also see PHS helping to distinguish our Race Kick-Off Party in February, and keep an eye out later this spring for how you can become part of the PHS one-million trees campaign and experience just how well PINK and GREEN go together!

With a focus on 'Planting Seeds. Growing Lives.' the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society's is certainly doing just that - and, in fact is helping to save lives - by upholding the Komen Promise to end breast cancer forever.

Remembering Elizabeth Edwards

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 12:56:32 -0500

Her passing reminds us that while we have come a long way in our fight to discover and deliver the cures to cancer, we still have a long way to go, especially in the case of metastatic disease.

"Elizabeth Edwards was an inspiration to countless women, through her willingness to publicly share her battle with breast cancer, and in her service to end disparities and fight for quality health care for all," said Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, Founder and CEO of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. "Her strength and perseverance were an inspiration to us all. While she will be missed, her spirit lives on in the fight to find the cures for cancer.

The thoughts of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family, as well as the entire Susan G. Komen for the Cure family of survivors and advocates are with Ms. Edward's family as they mourn her passing. We will continue to draw upon her legacy of courage, dignity, awareness and determination as we forge ahead in the quest to create a world without breast cancer.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, December: PinKKnit-a-thon

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 12:54:42 -0500

The story we share of Tara and Lisa has a beautiful lesson for all of us: you don't have to be a corporate sponsor... write a big check... or even give one dime... to make a huge difference in the life of a woman battling breast cancer. However, what you do have to do is open your mind and your heart to sharing the gifts you've been given-and in the process, you'll find you enrich your own lives, and can even have some fun along the way!

Last April, the two ladies launched their PinkKnit-a-thon blog, inviting knitting enthusiasts to join them in creating pink scarves to be donated, through grantees and partners of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, to breast cancer patients in need of a little light along their journey, a comforting gesture and a little warmth-figuratively and literally. Each of the 18 participants purchased her own yarn, and agreed to knit four inches per week. Every week, Tara and Lisa posted a new pattern on the blog site for participants to use to create their four inches.

From as far away as Australia and California, to as close to home as West and Center City Philadelphia, needles clicked in a harmony for months as the women knitted their creations-the effort reaching its climax this October when Tara and Lisa delivered more the twenty fabulous scarves to The Affiliate office.

"We wanted to do something other than the usual...something tangible which went directly to women who've dealt with this horrible disease," said Tara O'Brien, a resident of West Philadelphia. "Certainly I realize the importance of all the fundraising that happens for the cause. But sometimes the women who are suffering from breast cancer need a more direct gesture of caring. By giving these scarves, it is my wish that the women who receive them embrace them as a symbol of support. I want them to know that we hope and pray for their wellness and that they are not alone."

"Tara and I believe that the craft of knitting is a great metaphor for the healing process from cancer: it involves putting garments together, stitch by stitch, building slowly, over time," said Lisa Scarpello, a resident of Center City Philadelphia. "We want the women who receive these scarves, to know they are supported in their healing process, by other women who understood how difficult that process can be. This is what this project is all about-simply making a small gesture, providing support and compassion to women facing a terrible disease."

Plus, we cannot discount the impact this project made on the participants, who continually expressed thanks for the opportunity to make a difference, the friendships it opened and the inspiration it provided in their own lives. The arrival of the scarves in the Affiliate office also brightened our day and gave us all

a very personal, unforgettable memory.

For recognizing the heart of our mission to empower women in need... for sharing their talents to bring hope to so many... for infusing their own creativity, heart and passion into the Komen Promise, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate is proud-and so very grateful-to honor Tara, Lisa and the PinkKnit-A-Thon knitters with our Pink Ribbon of the Month. We encourage everyone to share and be inspired by their story.

Pictured l-r: Tara O'Brien; Lisa Scarpello; Marlene Lally, Affiliate Operations Manager/Volunteer Coordinator and Nancy Ford, Bookkeeper.

Check out the scarves at http://pinkknit-a-thon.blogspot.com/

Love to knit and want to help?

Become a follower of http://pinkknit-a-thon.blogspot.com/ for notices about the next PinkKnit-a-thon project!

Celebrating life by saving lives

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 15:36:38 -0400

Since her diagnosis in February 2008 and being proclaimed breast-cancer free in December, 2008, Sloane has devoted her life to empowering as many women as possible to make that same, triumphant walk and declaration, "I Am Cured!" Further more, in her breast cancer mission, she strives to help assure women of the future never even get to the point of having to be cured because the disease will be eradicated from the world in which we live.

"I knew other women who had the disease, and I heard them say how their breast cancer journey not only changed their life, but enriched it," said Sloane. "I understood to an extent, but still, I just couldn't grasp how such a horrible disease could possibly bring fulfillment to anyone... until I took the journey myself, and especially after I connected with the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, where I not only found support, but I found opportunities to give back and help other women less fortunate than myself."

To that end Sloane has become a devoted activist in numerous breast cancer initiatives, especially in her volunteer work with, and fundraising for, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. In fact, this October she delighted in seeing twelve months of planning, management and creativity come to fruition at the Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball, an event she co-chaired with her husband, Scott Clemens. Sloane put so much energy into the event, and brought so many new resources to the table, The Affiliate openly credits her with taking our event into a new era of elegance and fun, as well as increasing its fundraising potential by tens-of-thousands of dollars.

Outside of the Ball, Sloane volunteers for other Affiliate events, helps them forge new relationships with potential sponsors, speaks at outreach events, and, of course, she and Skylar continue to co-captain "Skylar's Neeya Team" for the Race each Mother's Day. To date, the team has raised upwards of $65,000 to help fight breast cancer. Beyond the fundraising, the team of Sloane, Scott and Skylar inspires thousands with their message that all generations have a role to play in the fight against breast cancer.

"The past three years have deepened my understanding of what other breast cancer survivors were trying to convey to me all those years ago... about how much breast cancer brings into your life. Yes, it is a horrible disease that pretty much took twelve months out of my life. But those few months are nothing compared to the lifetime I have ahead of me now, a life where my family and I are united in truly making a difference in creating a world without breast cancer."

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate thanks Sloane, Scott and Skylar for taking our Pink Tie Ball beyond all expectations, as well as for their incredible activism, generous hearts, compassion, passion and conviction in the cures.

Photo Caption: Sloane Six, her husband, Scott Clemens and their son Skylar, Co-Chairs of the 2010 Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball

Pink Ribbon of the Month, November: Team Ra-Ras

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 15:22:05 -0400

This amazing, worldwide initiative can be credited to 136 people... sharing the beat of one loving heart...Team Ra-Ras. From the idea that sparked the video project, to the final kick that capped off the video performance, to an ongoing effort to generate millions of views, this beautiful team of former NFL Alumni Philadelphia Chapter Cheerleaders made it all possible.

When you think about all the components that came together for the making of 'Team Ra-Ras Kicks Breast Cancer', it's not exactly what you expect to see in a group defined as having a great deal in common: a hot young, international Pop star and a primly attired 85-year old grandmother... residents of our quaint Philadelphia suburban community next to a woman living among the ritz-and-glitz of Palm Beach... leaders in the global fight to end breast cancer for over a quarter century, and a brand-new life, barely 3 weeks old, destined to help empower the future.

Ironically, these disparities in lifestyles are exactly what make Team Ra-Ras, so powerful, for they have all transcended the lines that make them different to unite in the one thing they all have in common - the vision of a world without breast cancer. And to that end, they share one mind, one heart and one determination to make that vision a reality.

"Our hope was to mobilize and empower millions with a concrete way to contribute to Komen's mission to end this disease forever," said of Maggie Trush-Hammond, Membership Chair of the NFL Alumni Philadelphia Chapter Cheerleaders. "You don't have to give any money... just watch the video on YouTube and in four short minutes you can help wipe out the disease that takes a life every sixty-nine seconds."

In June, the Team Ra-Ra leaders - Maggie Trush-Hammond, Audrey Purcell and Sharon Grove - came to The Affiliate with their idea for the video. All summer, in homes as close as Philadelphia and as far away as Arizona, the Team Ra-Ras NFL Alumni Philadelphia Chapter Cheerleaders practiced a routine representing dance styles from each decade between 1960 and 2010. In September, they reunited in Philadelphia to film the 'grand finale.' Ranging in age from 25-64, including eight breast cancer survivors, the participants invested endless hours and dollars in travel, practice, uniforms and performance. Moreover, their work is not done, as each one of them is spending even more time and effort to help us reach our goal of 1 million views by January 1, embracing their local communities and online social networks in the viral video project.

"Last year, MaryLou Tammaro, a fellow cheerleader and cherished mentor, was diagnosed with breast cancer... then and there we all knew we had to do something to make a difference," said Carethia Thomas, who cheered for the Philadelphia Eagles in the late 1980s - early 1990s. " Fortunately, the disease has not touched my family or me, but after the news about MaryLou, I kept thinking in the back of my mind, 'What if I was diagnosed? Would people be there for me?' Team Ra-Ras set out to help assure every woman that she never has to fear facing a diagnosis alone."

"It is humbling to think that from our small office in Philadelphia, we've achieved something that will embrace people around the world in the hope of beating breast cancer," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "This incredible journey epitomizes teamwork and conviction... made possible thanks to the ingenuity, generosity and passion of Team Ra-Ras."

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate is proud to recognize Team Ra-Ras with our Pink Ribbon of the Month... honored to call each one of them our friend... and forever grateful for their conviction and dedication to 'kicking breast cancer into oblivion'!

More Team Ra-Ras Fun & Inspiration

Pink Ribbon of the Month, October: Donna Massanova

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:11:14 -0400

A Partner, Employee Benefits Plans Practice Leader, at ParenteBeard -- a company dedicated to giving back who has been a loyal supporter of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate for several years -- Donna has shown tremendous resourcefulness, ingenuity and passion for taking on her responsibilities as Honorary Race Chairperson, as well as a member of the newly formed Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Leadership Committee.

However, in describing Donna, all these titles and names can be replaced by one word: activist. She has committed to numerous roles to take our Race over the top this year in terms of fundraising and participation, and if you talk to her for just 15 seconds, you not only hear in her voice that she will make it happen, but you see it in her eyes, and feel it in the energetic aura around her.

To say Donna has a zest for all she puts her mind to is an understatement; and The Affiliate is fortunate she has set her mind on helping us create a world without breast cancer! Professionally, she has been instrumental in ParenteBeard's growing practice and leadership in the field of Employee Benefit Plan Audit Services, a driver of quality practices, and a major contributor to the firm's marketing, business development and employee education/training in the benefits arena. And now, in the position of Honorary Chairperson for our Race, Donna brings a wealth of capabilities and experiences cultivated via her personal and professional undertakings.

But again, what is so inspiring to us all is not so much what Donna aims to do and the resources she brings to the table do to it, as it is the attitude, motivation and pure love that is driving her activism. In Donna's own words:

"This position is a great honor for me, and I dedicate myself to not just meeting the goals The Affiliate and I set forth, but exceeding them. In doing so, I hope to include everyone I can in the fulfillment of the Komen breast cancer movement... to give my colleagues, contacts and friends the same opportunity this Honorary Race Chairpersonship gives to me -- the opportunity to make a difference in ending breast cancer. It is not just life-saving, it can be life-changing for all of us."

Immediately after accepting the Honorary Chairperson position, Donna started a letter campaign, the first step in achieving very aggressive goals to take 2011 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure corporate team formation, corporate fundraising and sponsorships to new levels. In addition, she's dedicated to including breast health education and awareness of the work of The Affiliate family into all of her outreach.

"From now until Race day -- and beyond -- Donna is dedicating herself to not only leaving her own legacy, but embracing thousands of other people to believe in the difference they can make in ending generations of fighting as supporters of the 2011 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "For far too long, daughters, mothers and grandmothers... sons, fathers and grandfathers... have been fighting against this disease. With a compassionate, focused woman such as Donna Massanova empowering the breast cancer movement, our victory is surely close at hand."

Pictured: Donna (center) with fellow members of the Executive Women International, for which she is serving as Board President in 2010-2011.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, September: Sally Rotenberg

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 12:42:21 -0400

At the top of the "curriculum," is the Dietz and Watson "Pretty In Pig"... an awareness and fundraising program of The Affiliate to which Sally added a whole other dimension by applying her years of experience as a teacher, journey as a survivor and incredible passion for the breast cancer movement.

As Co-Chairperson for the School Outreach Program, last year alone Sally helped the entire Dietz & Watson "Pretty In Pig" campaign, including the school component, raise approximately $75,000 for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. But her contributions to our community breast cancer movement run much deeper than this one role. She is an advocate. A fundraiser. An educator. A thinker and a doer. A friend to everyone fighting the fight. And, perhaps above all else, she is a believer in the reality that, together, we can one day soon eradicate breast cancer forever.

For almost a decade, Sally and her daughter, Abby, had volunteered for and participated in the Susan G. Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure®--each year, together mother and daughter watched from the bottom of the Art Museum steps as the pink sea of breast cancer survivors enveloped them. In 2006, Sally viewed this emotional scene from within, treasuring every step in the Parade of Pink as a celebration of her own battle with, and victory over, breast cancer.

"I never thought I'd be walking down those steps as a survivor," said Sally. "It's something you never expect to happen to you, and something that forever changes your life."

Since that time, Sally has embraced her life-changing experience as a means to change and enrich the lives of anyone and everyone she can through her volunteerism with the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. And her activism has become a true family affair--with everyone being inspired by Sally, Sally being inspired by her family, and the entire clan celebrating life by empowering the fight together. These include Sally's husband Kenny; son and daughter-in-law Jeffrey and Melissa; daughter Abby; daughter Jill Moss, her husband Brian and their three children; and sister Dianne Schwartz... all of whom volunteer with the Race and/or "Pretty In Pig" and, with the Moss family even taking our little piggies south to their hometown community in Florida.

"Sally is a beautiful example of living life to the fullest... of recognizing her life for the gift it is, and embracing everyone she can with the insights to honor their own lives in the very same way," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "For her, working with The Affiliate is an opportunity to transform her breast cancer journey into hope for others. Everyone she meets represents an opportunity to empower the Komen promise. To her, every person she can embrace in the Komen mission brings us one step closer to a world without breast cancer."

From volunteering for the CBS 3 Call for the Cure and Race registration events, to helping sell raffle tickets, speaking to groups, and much more, Sally is an activist with The Affiliate on many levels. However it is the "Pretty In Pig" program that truly embodies what makes her Pink Ribbon of the Month caliber! When we came to Sally with the idea of taking this piggy-bank fundraiser into local schools, she not only agreed to head up the program, but she pushed the envelope to give it greater, wider-reaching, impact.

With Sally's initiative, hard work, connections, and help of her good friend, fellow survivor, and Co-Chair, Susan Hyman, the "Pretty In Pig" School Outreach Program is now running beyond our expectations and has been transformed from a fundraising campaign to an initiative empowering multiple generations with breast cancer awareness, education, and the reinforcement of the idea that every penny counts when it comes to saving lives. Through "Pretty In Pig," Sally has put the power over breast cancer into the hands of thousands, showing them that they can make a difference in the fight and inspiring everyone to take action.

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate is proud to honor Sally Rotenberg with the September Pink Ribbon of the Month. We we thank her -- on behalf of millions of women, men and children -- for the many lessons she teaches us, her friendship and her passion.

Pictured: Survivors of breast cancer, champions of "change" via the Pretty in Pig School Outreach Program...

Top photo, Sally Rotenberg (left) and Elaine Grobman take time out at the 2010 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure before sending "this piggy" home full of cash for the cures.
Bottom photo, Susan Hyman doing "Pig outreach" at the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers Health & Welfare Conference.

Pick Your Pink Prudently this NBCAM

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 16:46:40 -0400

Six Things To Consider Before You Buy

Not all pink products are created equal. And let's face it, in the weeks leading up to, during and following National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM), you'll find products with pink ribbons down nearly every grocery store aisle, as well as other types of stores and online. The goal is to create breast cancer awareness and give consumers the opportunity to help fight the disease through their purchases. But, with so many pink products around every corner, it's understandable you might feel overwhelmed. Susan G. Komen for the Cure offers six guidelines to help you "Pick you Pink Prudently" and feel confident your purchase is in line with your breast cancer mission.

I. Look for a logo you recognize

If you're not comfortable with generic claims such as, "Supports Breast Cancer Research," look for a logo you recognize, like the signature Komen for the Cure Running Ribbon.

II. Check the packaging for details

Komen partners specify how your purchase or participation benefits Komen.

III. Check websites for details about partner programs

Information about Komen partners is clearly spelled out at www.Komen.org.

IV. Understand the charity by visiting its website

Is this a cause in which you believe? Do you support the organization's work?

V. Understand where you money goes

Responsible charities are transparent about their finances. Most list their financial information on their websites. Komen spends 84¢ of every dollar on research, support and education programs

VI. Get confirmation

Check websites like Charity Navigator and better Business Bureau Wise giving Alliance for information about the charity. For example, Komen is proud to have earned a 4-star Charity Navigator rating three years in a row, and is a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity.

The Running Ribbon is a registered trademark of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Komen Announces $500,000 Research Grant for Fox Chase Cancer Center

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 11:48:36 -0400

The Komen for the Cure $500,000 grant is one of two for Fox Chase and is part of nearly $1.7 million in research that Komen is funding in Pennsylvania this year. Globally, Komen is awarding $59 million in research grants for scientists to find the cures for breast cancer and to end the disease. Overall, Komen is investing nearly $8.5 million into Pennsylvania's economy for research and community programs

"Once we've discovered the cures, we want a world where no one ever has to face breast cancer ever again, which is why solid, comprehensive science on how to prevent this disease is so very important," said Ambassador Nancy G. Brinker, founder and CEO of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. "Susan G. Komen for the Cure has funded prevention research for years, but we have far more to learn to unlock the secrets of how this disease forms."

Komen will also award $800,000 in other grants to Thomas Jefferson University and the University of Pennsylvannia. One of these studies will try to find better ways to predict everything from recurrence to survival rates for individual patients. Komen is also funding a Penn State study to investigate disparities in breast cancer care for women in rural Appalachia.

"Komen's infusion of millions of dollars into research projects means that promising research that is designed to treat and ultimately eradicate breast cancer will continue," said Eric Winer, M.D., Komen's chief scientific advisor.

Komen by the Numbers in Pennsylvania:

Since 1989, Komen has awarded more than $34 million in research in Pennsylvania, part of Komen's more than $450 million in research funded globally since Komen was founded in 1981.

Additionally, the four Komen Pennsylvania Affiliates invested $6.6 million in their local communities last year, supporting programs for early detection and treatment of breast cancer, breast health education and outreach programs.

Nationwide, Komen Affiliates invested a total of $130 million in their local communities last year. During the past 28 years, Komen has invested more than $900 million to community education and support programs worldwide.

Pending agreements, Komen this year is funding the following Pennsylvania researchers and projects:

Temple University: Bin Wang, $450,000, Targeted Multidrug Delivery System to Overcome Chemoresistance in Breast Cancer
Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine: Roger Anderson, $269,936, Breast Cancer Disparities in Rural Appalachia
Thomas Jefferson University: Michael Lisanti, $600,000, Mining the Breast Cancer "Stromal Proteome": Using Targeted Proteomics to Identify Novel Stromal Breast Cancer Biomarkers
Fox Chase Cancer Center: Jose Russo, $500,000, Chromatin remodeling as a preventive strategy in breast cancer
Fox Chase Cancer Center: Xiaowei Chen, $450,000, Identify Novel Breast Cancer Candidate Loci by Genome-Wide Allele-Specific Expression Analysis
University of Pennsylvania: Arjun Yodh, $180,000 - Non-invasive tissue response monitoring during neoadjuvant chemotherapy using Diffuse Optical Tomography and MRI
University of Pittsburgh: John Lazo, $120,000 - Identifying chemosensitivity nodes and small molecule inhibitors regulating breast cancer stem cell proliferation and survival

Pink Ribbon of the Month, August: Mary Thompson

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:44:32 -0400

Although Mary is no longer with us in body, her spirit lives on in her children, grandchildren and friends, inspired by her courageous battle with the disease, as well as her personal mission to empower as many women as possible with the access to care that saved her life from breast cancer. Demonstrating her steadfast devotion to this cause, Mary designated $50,000 of her estate for donation to the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

Shortly after she was diagnosed with breast cancer ten years ago, Mary relocated from South Carolina to Lower Gwynedd, PA. She was no stranger to the disease, having taken the breast cancer journey with her daughter, Karen, three years earlier. From the moment of her daughter's diagnosis, Mary was impacted by the prevalence of breast cancer across generations and took up the quest to help empower the cures - not so much for herself, but for her children and grandchildren.

Karen found herself in the rather unique position of a daughter being able to support her mother through the decision-making, treatment and healing process, based on experience. However, Karen also found that, as much as she helped Mary, Mary helped her... as well as many others.

"All the while she was going through this - even the most difficult times dealing with the cancer - it was very important to my mother that whatever she did, it helped someone else," said Karen Givnish. "She'd be sick, sitting in the infusion chair, and still was a ray of sunshine... engaging the staff and other patients, asking about their families, and just genuinely caring about their lives. She didn't want the focus to be on her, but truly found strength in expressing her genuine care for others."

Through all the trials of her own and her daughter's fight against breast cancer, Mary refused to be limited by the negative, instead living and loving life... embracing each day for the happiness in contained. The happiness and hope embodied in the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure certainly did not elude her, an event she experienced several times as a proud spectator while her daughter, granddaughter and grandson completed the 5K.

"She was very inspired by all the pink and tremendous efforts of the Race. This, coupled with the innate generosity that lived in the hearts of my parents - it came as no surprise that my mother's will contained the donation to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. The two of them simply wanted to help people because they cared. I am so very proud of both of them."

All those who knew Mary - and even those who may only have met her once or twice - knew of her conviction that with proper access to screening, treatment and follow-up care for ALL people, one day all generations could be living in a world where breast cancer is no longer a threat to any life. She knew that the care they received saved her life and her daughter's from the disease... and she made it her personal mission to do whatever she could to help assure that women in need had access to the same care.

The Affiliate is extremely proud to be entrusted with the legacy Mary has left to empower the breast cancer movement. We celebrate her life by sharing the lessons she has left all of us through the way she embraced life, empowered the cures and instilled hope in the hearts of all those around her.

As Mary was fond of saying as she faced the challenges of the disease, "Tomorrow will be a better day." Thanks to Mary's love and generosity, tomorrow will be a better day for generations of women waking up as winners in the fight against breast cancer.

Komen Creates Scientific Advisory Council

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0400

The distinguished experts from a wide range of disciplines and seven countries will serve as inaugural members of Komen for the Cure's new Scientific Advisory Council (SAC). They will provide scientific peer review for the breast cancer grants and programs that Komen funds on an annual basis. The Scientific Advisory Council will also provide Komen leadership with guidance on breast cancer education and public policy.

"The creation of the Scientific Advisory Council demonstrates Komen's ever-growing leadership in the global breast cancer movement, as well as how, locally, our communities in and around Philadelphia are making an impact in the world's fight against breast cancer," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "Through Dr. Domchek's contributions to the Council, as well as the fundraising and awareness raising supporters of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate do here at home, each day we help empower the future of a world without breast cancer."

Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the largest source of breast cancer research funding outside of the U.S. government, currently funds nearly 760 active research grants around the world, with plans to invest another $55 million into 105 projects in 2010 alone.

"Komen for the Cure's $500 million in research funding over the years has led to treatments that extend survival and improve quality of life for individuals with breast cancer. Moreover, Komen's breast cancer effort has led to a much finer understanding of the genetic and molecular basis of the disease," said Eric Winer, M.D., Susan G. Komen for the Cure's chief scientific advisor and Director of the Breast Oncology Center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. "This new council is a logical step forward in our evolving approach to breast cancer research. Our hope, and our plan, is to further reduce breast cancer mortality and incidence in the next decade. We need to make progress in the years ahead, and want to do so much more rapidly than in the past."

The new advisory council will span a wide range of specialties, including clinical research, laboratory research, surgery, pathology, radiation oncology, epidemiology, medical oncology, behavioral sciences, disease prevention, bioinformatics and international health. Four advocates also will sit on the advisory panel.

Among those serving on the SAC is V. Craig Jordan, Ph.D., D.Sc., Scientific Director, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown University and also known as the individual who has been most responsible for the widespread use of the drug tamoxifen, a drug that radically changed treatment for breast and other cancers when it was introduced in 1978. "This approach allows experts in all fields to identify and encourage the most promising research and translate the science into treatments and prevention strategies more effectively," Jordan said. "It's an exciting prospect and I can't wait to get to work on it."

The new council builds on a foundation established in 2007 by Winer with Komen for the Cure's eight-member Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). During the past three years, the SAB has focused Komen's program on research that can lead to reductions in breast cancer mortality or incidence in the next decade. The SAB will oversee Komen's SAC as an executive committee.

SAC members based in the U.S. will serve as liaisons in 21 communities while international members will provide the same valuable information to those living in Belgium, Canada, England, Israel, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. They will also participate in professional scientific conferences, think tank meetings and state-of-science reviews.

SAC members will serve as either full or associate council members. Full members are established senior scholars and leaders in the field of breast cancer who have already made significant contributions to the field. Associate members are independent investigators and scientists between five and 12 years from fellowship training who demonstrate significant promise. These individuals are destined to be leaders in the years ahead.

As researchers themselves, SAC members must demonstrate to Komen that they are involved in innovative projects that seek to discover and deliver the cures for breast cancer. Given that they are not eligible to apply for standard Komen grants, SAC members will be provided with the opportunity to receive funding for their academic institutions in amounts ranging from $175,000 to $250,000 on an annual basis for their work.

SAC members will serve two-year terms, which are also renewable.

"Every person in this field is eager to get the best results for our patients and future generations," said Ann Partridge, M.D., M.P.H., a new associate council member and medical oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Assistant Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School. "This approach, augmented by our own research and our outreach to our communities, helps us better define critical areas for science and clinical research going forward."

Komen is adhering to a longstanding tradition of including breast cancer advocates as active participants in its research process. Four advocates were selected as members of the SAC. "Komen is an advocacy organization at its core, and it's critical the perspectives of those affected by breast cancer continue to be fully integrated into decisions at every step of our research process," said Cheryl Jernigan, a member of the council from the Greater Kansas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®.

Click here for a complete list of Scientific Advisory Council members.

Learn more about the SAC and its membership.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, July: Jason Lichterman

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0400

In his devoted breast cancer activism, Jason exemplifies living the Komen promise to the utmost degree, demonstrating outstanding ingenuity, initiative, resourcefulness and love for his community. His clear passion for the Komen vision of a world without breast cancer, as well as outstanding ability to embrace all generations in the breast cancer movement, is an inspiration for us all.

Jason's involvement with the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure is inspired by his mother-in-law, who is a breast cancer survivor. His crusade is in celebration of her fight and on behalf of all women--past, present and to come.

"I am very fortunate that in this tough economy, J.M. Lichterman & Co. is doing well, and I know for many this is not the case--especially families who are falling victim to downsizing or benefits being cut in today's companies," said Jason. "My activism with Susan G. Komen for the Cure is simply my way of giving back to those in need and, in the longer term, contributing to the greater good by helping bring to reality the vision of a world without breast cancer."

Last winter, Jason came to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate with his own vision... a campaign called "Pearls for Passion." The concept was simple: what could be better than accessorizing your look with exquisite, hand-crafted Tahitian pearl necklaces and bracelets? The answer: doing so while also empowering the reality of a world without breast cancer.

For a full year, starting March 15, 2010 and ending March 15, 2011, Jason and J.M. Lichterman & Co., will donate 20% of each designated Tahitian pearl necklace and bracelet purchased to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. So far, in less than four months, the campaign has raised $2,500.

In addition to "Pearls for Passion," Jason and J.M. Lichterman & Co. have donated Tahitian pearl and pink-pearl necklaces and bracelets to help with fundraising for the CBS 3 Call for the Cure, the 2010 Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball®, Teens for the Cure's Tickled Pink!® and other initiatives. In addition, he is working on another very meaningful add-a-pearl anniversary necklace for breast cancer survivors, the sale of which will also benefit the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

"From the moment I met Jason, I knew 'Pearls for Passion' was going to be just the tip of the iceberg--for you could see in his eyes that he was... well... passionate about making a true difference in raising both funds and awareness for our mission," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "He frequently asks how he can do more--and every time I make a suggestion, he embraces it, enhances it and makes it a success."

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate is proud to name Jason Lichterman our July Pink Ribbon of the Month recipient, and we thank him--on behalf of millions of women--for the beauty of his jewelry... which is only outshined by the beauty of his heart.

Pictured: After donating incentive gifts for the 2010 CBS 3 Call for the Cure, Jason (right) poses with Danny Bonaduce of 94 WYSP and Lisa Wollan, Vice-President of the Komen Philadelphia Board of Directors.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, June: Le Castagne

Wed, 02 Jun 2010 17:01:48 -0400

For all of us, the story of Le Castagne's early activism with The Affiliate offers a wonderful message: it is not always the longevity of time together that makes for an exceptional partnership, but the achievements of that time together. In the case of Le Castagne, it all started with a four-course meal and a five-star commitment to empowering a very special facet of The Affiliate mission in our community.

The mission of which we speak is our very successful Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Philanthropy, Networking & Insights (P.I.N.) Stripes program for the Delaware Valley young professionals community. Thriving after nearly two years, this spring The Affiliate decided it was time to take P.I.N. Stripes to the next level of career empowerment and offer our audience a more sophisticated, rewarding event. However, to do so required an equally sophisticated presenting sponsor... one who not only could embrace our vision, but deliver every detail necessary to bring it to reality.

That sponsor was Le Castagne, who met our needs, and also transcended our expectations by bringing to the table exceptional creativity, resourcefulness and focus on the task at hand. And--literally--they they brought to the table an extraordinary meal like none ever presented to our P.I.N. Stripes guests!

But even before that meal was served, the management team and staff at Le Castagne got on board to help us shape what came to be known as P.I.N. Stripes: The Spotlight Series. For about two months, they were at the service of our P.I.N. Stripes committee--offering advice, guiding us on ways to enhance the evening, coordinating technical details and much more. With Le Castagne at our side, by the time May 24 rolled around, we knew the fifty young professionals present for the launch of the Spotlight Series would leave Le Castagne with no doubt in their minds that they attended a first-class event... something far beyond the typical "mix and mingle" approach to networking.

Beyond providing a venue and catering the meal, Le Castagne went to extraordinary measures to invest themselves in the success of the Spotlight Series. By their doing so, they enabled The Affiliate to nurture within our young professional audience the desire to begin their activism in the breast cancer movement, as well as to further implant our foothold in the career networking arena and make a successful transition into a combined fundraiser and career-building event.

Through just this one event, Le Castagne made an impact that will continue to be felt at the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate... and throughout the communities we serve. We thank them sincerely and look forward to continuing our friendship with them as, together, we bring all people closer to a world without breast cancer.

Pictured: The team responsible for the debut event of P.I.N. Stripes: The Spotlight Series (l-r): Amy Weinstein, Committee Co-Chair; Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate; Anthony Masapollo, General Manager, Le Castagne; Sharon Pinkenson, Executive Director, Greater Philadelphia Film Office, Megan Scheib, Committee Co-Chair; and Neil Stein, Committee Co-Chair.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, May: Dietz & Watson

Tue, 04 May 2010 14:50:06 -0400

For May, we are proud to honor the entire team at Dietz & Watson with our "Pink Ribbon of the Month." Although Dietz and Watson has only been a part of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family for two years, their heart and passion have breathed incredible life into the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure, as well as the entire Komen community fighting to end breast cancer in these most challenging of economic times.

When the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate first came up with the idea of "Pretty In Pig" to help reinforce the idea that every penny counts when empowering communities against breast cancer, that's all we had... an IDEA. We knew bringing something of this magnitude to life would take a corporate sponsor with an equally large--or larger--commitment to giving back to its community. And so, we reached out to Dietz & Watson with the sponsorship opportunity, thinking that their business made a perfect fit for this unique campaign. What we found was much more than a sponsor--we found a partner who was clearly devoted to not only partnering with the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, but also to partnering with every man, woman and child in the breast cancer movement.

In the beginning, we did not know that Dietz & Watson's CFO, Cindy Yingling, was a breast cancer survivor. Nor did we know of the other cancer survivors in their family. Certainly these cancer journeys have intensified the team's commitment to "Pretty In Pig;" however, it is not the tie that binds them together in their breast cancer activism. That tie is plain and simply a corporate culture founded on 1) giving back to the community that helped make their business what it is today, and 2) upholding the integrity of the Dietz & Watson name by leaving a legacy of health, happiness and richness in life for all future generations.

And so, when the opportunity of "Pretty In Pig" presented itself in 2009, Dietz & Watson jumped in with both feet, lead by Cindy's enthusiasm, creativity, resourcefulness and passion. They underwrote and oversaw the production of our first larger-than-life pig and hundreds of piglets which "ran rampant" throughout the community collecting cash for the cures. They empowered their own team to get involved, delivering and collecting piggybanks from owners of stores that sell Dietz & Watson products. In addition, they made substantial donations to the Race for the Cure.

When all was said and done, when our 6-foot "Pretty In Pig" gal made her debut at the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure last year, in less two hours, she turned all the loose change walking around the Race site into almost $7,000 for the cause! Add in the other campaign funds raised by area schools and businesses in the months leading up to the Race, and the total for the 2009 "Pretty In Pig" campaign came to more than $50,000!

True to her we-can-always-do-more attitude, Cindy and the Dietz & Watson team once again revved up the campaign in 2010. At the beginning of this Race season, confident our community could multiply the 2009 fundraising results many times over, Dietz & Watson sponsored the creation and "tour" of an additional four large pigs and hundreds of piglets. For months they have been out in the community raising funds, and all those "little piggies" will soon be returning home, full of MORE cash for the cures!

To build more awareness for the campaign in 2010, Dietz & Watson even donated outdoor advertising space to The Affiliate. As they have done since day one, they also offered more of their corporate resources and embraced other partners to take the billboard campaign to the next level-maximizing exposure and minimizing costs to The Affiliate to absolutely ZERO dollars.

"There are simply no words to adequately thank Cindy and Dietz & Watson for all they have done to support the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate and empower the local and global breast cancer movement," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "But the moment you meet any member of their team, you know immediately, they are not doing this for thanks or praise. For them, seeing a child laughing as she puts $5 in the big pig... and knowing they are helping assure she grows up in a world without breast cancer... is the ultimate thanks. I am confident, with compassionate, faith-filled friends like Dietz & Watson by our side, that world is very close at hand."

Visit our "Pretty In Pig" community photo gallery, including newly added pictures from the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers Health and Welfare Conference.

Pictured: Thanks to Dietz and Watson and generous partners including ABC Imaging, Phase III, Clear Channel and Alex Wagner who "jumped through hoops" to secure donations of space, production and installation, nearly a dozen Pretty In Pig billboards greeted commuters for several weeks before the Race.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, April: Fred Stein, Senior Producer, The Creative Group, Inc.

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 15:43:56 -0400

Although you've probably never even see Fred - for he thrives behind the scenes - his spirit has touched us all. In every aspect of the term, he is the "Star Visionary" behind the regional breast cancer movement - which is why in this sharing of his story, we start with our Race Kick-Off Party, held this past February.

The 20th Anniversary Celebration of the Susan G. Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure was officially kicked off in 2010 with a stellar parade of visionaries, key people, who from the first day the Race was just a dream, believed in its power, empowered its growth and made it a major force in changing the face of breast cancer in our community. Not only was this historic parade of visionaries the brainchild of Fred Stein, Senior Producer of the Creative Group, Inc., but without a doubt, Fred himself was a star visionary... leading the way twenty years ago as one of the first to fully invest himself professionally and personally in the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure.

Fred's involvement with the Race started with a simple request from a friend, who at the time was head of the advertising/PR firm representing the Race: "This event really needs some help, Fred... oh, and by the way, they have no money." The rest, as they say, is twenty years of history of saving lives and empowering generations for a future without breast cancer.

"My initial involvement was simply me doing a favor for a friend," said Fred, who has an event-planning list of credentials including everything from the Race, to opening the Paris Las Vegas Casino, to orchestrating ceremonies for the likes of Hamid Karzai, and celebrations such as Mobile Alabama's 300th anniversary.

"My life hadn't personally been touched by breast cancer at the time. I wasn't looking to further the business's charitable initiatives. But before the end of that first Race, it was Elaine Grobman that endeared me to the Komen mission... Elaine, the first Race Co-Chair, Phyllis Roseman, and a small but mighty group of women whose commitment and loyalty to fighting breast cancer was unlike anything I'd ever experienced."

Elaine Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate and the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure for all twenty years, speaks equally as highly of Fred's contributions. "It's easy to sum up: we simply would not be the force we are today without Fred's complete and utter dedication, resourcefulness and generosity," said Grobman. "He has been with me - with all women of our community - every step of the way. He believes in the dream and will not stop until a world without breast cancer is a reality."

So, in 1991, Fred took the first step in a journey that would forever change his life, becoming the first - and only - event planner and coordinator for the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure.

"My friend was correct, the Race needed help," said Fred. "So the first thing I did was contact Manifique Décor in Manayunk for huge pink balloon arches to grace the Race site. We hung some very simple signs and, overall it seemed the thousand or so people who came out that first year had a great experience."

That first year and several years afterward, those signs and the now signature pink balloon arches that herald more than 6,000 breast cancer survivors at the Race, were donated by Fred. He also brought in "man power," enlisting the help of his teenage children and their friends, whom he put up in a nearby hotel and put to work the Saturday and Sunday of Race weekend. Like Fred, many of those teens, especially his son, Neil who was ten when he first got involved, continue to this day with their involvement with the Race and the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate... on an even deeper level.

As the years went on, Fred helped establish the Race, bringing in other suppliers, volunteers and resources with whom he had connections. In speaking of the Race's progression through the years, he fondly recalls the "Pierogi Guy":

"We weren't sure how many would show up, but we knew we had to feed them. So we found a vendor... 'the Pierogi Guy' who distributed pierogis and soft pretzels. Even at seven in the morning, he was a big hit. We basically took what we could find until several years later, Wawa magically appeared and now they feed tens of thousands."

When asked why he does all he does for the Race, Fred refers back to Manifique Décor, who at the time was owned by Phebe Bartholomew Runyon. In 1991, Phebe was a spitfire determined to make her small shop in Manayunk into to a decorating powerhouse... no one ever dreamed she would later die of cancer.

"It just shows you the magnitude of what we are fighting, no one is beyond its grasp and it takes a force like Komen and this entire community coming together to take it down."

Almost immediately after the inaugural Race, Fred found other ways to contribute to the success of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate and today is on call for event planning, consultation, and basically anything that is asked of him.

"From our gala Pink Tie Ball, to intimate thank you parties, and all the way up to something as grand as our 20th anniversary Race celebration, Fred willingly and thankfully does anything I ask of him... and believe me, I ask a great deal," said Grobman with a smile.

So exactly how much time, money and effort do Fred's year-round contributions - which, in addition to the Race include the Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball^® for all of its nine years, the Celebrate Life! survivors luncheon, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate P.I.N. Stripes quarterly young professionals events, at least three educational outreach events per year and more - encompass? According to Grobman, it is beyond measure and value. However, Fred estimates $30,000-$40,000 per year in work and resources. As for time, well, as he puts it, "I'll still be packing up my gear after the Race is over and get a phone call from Elaine with ideas for next year... so, I'd say about noon on Mother's Day is when I get started for the next year."

But clearly, Fred wouldn't give it up for anything. For him, one of the most gratifying moments of Race day comes at about 4:30 AM on Mother's Day, when it's still dark and, standing at the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, he takes in the tranquility of about 1,000 volunteers seeing to all the last-minute details, just hours before more than 120,000 people will descend on the site.

"The fundraising our Race achieves is phenomenal, there's no doubt," said Fred. "But more than that, this Race has created an awareness about breast cancer like no other event or movement. It started out with a few women and has grown to a region-wide awareness that, woman by woman, one life saved at a time, will one day soon end this disease forever."

Pictured: Fred Stein in one of the early years of the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure, discussing a last-minute detail with Elaine Grobman.

Refunds for Research

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 11:46:42 -0400

Pink Ribbon of the Month, March: CBS 3 & The CW Philly 57

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:49:11 -0500

Twenty years ago, when the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure was just a kernel of an idea, Pat Ciarrocchi (Eyewitness News), Joanne Calabria (Vice-President, Public Affairs for CBS Television Stations) and other dedicated members of the Channel 3 team, came to Komen with a dream ... and a conviction. The dream was a world without breast cancer. The conviction was to make that dream a REALITY.

As our official media sponsor, there is no denying CBS 3 and The CW Philly 57 make a huge impact in the breast cancer movement by broadcasting our life-saving messages to millions. However, their activism extends far beyond "reporting the news." Empowering a world without breast cancer permeates their corporate culture, exists in the hearts and minds of every employee at every level... and transcends into their personal lives as well.

"You talk about a best friend... the person who stands by you through thick and thin, the parent who nurtures you to reach for the stars and believe you can capture your dreams, the sister who looks out for you, the mentor who guides you along all of life's paths, the partner who opens new doors to you behind which are fulfillment and empowerment. Pat Ciarrocchi, Joanne Calabria, and all who have been part of CBS 3 over the years are all this and more to me, personally, the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate and - most importantly - this entire community fighting every day to end breast cancer forever," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

"During these twenty years of Komen Philadelphia's Race for the Cure, I've witnessed a revolution of spirit... in the beginning, those women and their families who dared to step forward were making a bold statement that a cure is possible," said Pat Ciarrocchi. "Through these twenty years, we discovered that breast cancer was not a solitary disease, but one that reaches into families and communities. If it affects one, it affects all of us. So, why not join our energies, and dedicate ourselves to chiseling through all aspects of this disease, so we can reveal a world without breast cancer? The Race for the Cure is a symbol of our steadfast focus that we WILL live in that world."

Every year we are supported by incredible amounts of time, talent and resources of the entire team, generously provided by Jon Hitchcock, General Manager and President. The Affiliate is proud and grateful to have CBS 3 and The CW Philly 57 be the face and voice of every Komen Philadelphia Affiliate event and undertaking... and then some!

From day one, with Pat Ciarrocchi and Ukee Washington being two of the first in1991, the Eyewitness News team has brought the news, hope, dreams and live coverage of our Race to millions. For decades, the Race, as well as our Kick-Off Party, Celebrate Life!, Pink Tie Ball and more are hosted by the women of CBS 3 Eyewitness News, which includes Carol Erickson, who also proudly embraces fellow survivors in the Parade of Pink on Race day.

Many of you have undoubtedly also seen the fabulous CBS 3 Call for the Cure, which, for two years has kicked Race fundraising into high gear and allowed thousands of people who cannot attend the Race experience the joy of helping to make a difference - right from their living rooms! Likewise, you've surely seen Stephanie Stahl, Medical Specialist, present important stories on breast health care and breakthroughs... or Susan Barnett donning her vibrant pink behind the anchor desk and giving special recognition to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family... or Kathy Orr lifting the hearts of our participants with a rosy Race-day forecast... or Natasha Brown embracing a survivor who just made her emotional journey down the Art Museum steps... or...

The list goes and on, and it is one that can never truly be exhausted or explained, for the CBS 3 heart is one that must be experienced. Fortunately, millions of us have experienced why CBS 3 and The CW Philly 57 exemplify "Pink Ribbon," not just "of the month" but of "the entire existence" of the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure.

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate congratulates and thanks CBS 3 and The CW Philly 57 for their exceptional service to us, as well as so many other worthy efforts that enrich our community. In all they do - as skilled professionals as well as passionate activists - this distinguished team continually helps us all to see the vision of a world without breast cancer and BELIEVE in its reality.

Meet Your 2010 CBS 3/The CW Philly 57 "Women of the Race"

Susan Barnett
Pat Ciarrocchi
Liz Keptner
Natasha Brown
Kathy Orr
Lesley Van Arsdall
Anne-Marie Green
Stephanie Stahl
Carol Erickson

And the "Pink Oscar" Goes to...

Pat Ciarrocchi, "Best Supporting Supporter," for her extraordinary creation of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate "20 Year Video" retrospective. Pat spent unquantifiable amounts of time, resources, creativity and heart to conduct interviews, script and narrate, gather footage and research, and oversee creation of this incredible piece of work. This award is shared with Producer, Cathy Molique, Editor, Dani Dolan and Jon Hitchcock for providing studio resources to make it happen.

Click here now to view this emotional, inspiring video.

Did You Know...

Pat Ciarrocchi was a Member of the Komen Philadelphia Board of Directors for several years.
Joanne Calabria, Vice President, Public Affairs for CBS Television Studios is the current President of the Komen Philadelphia Board of Directors. Click here for a special letter from our President.

Pictured: Jon Hitchcock, President and General Manager, CBS 3 and The CW Philly 57 speaks at the 2010 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure Kick-Off Party, reinforcing the company's commitment to the Komen mission and renewing the promise to stop at nothing until all generations live in a world without breast cancer.

Pledge Power: One Man, One Passion, $75,000!

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:34:59 -0500

Sound a little overly ambitious? Certainly not - considering that over the past three years, Walt has single-handedly raised nearly $75,000 in funds to support his walk in the annual Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure. The Cherry Hill resident isn't a corporate "mogul." He's not a famous scientist with hundreds of wealthy connections. He's a modest working man, with a personal mission to save lives, a great deal of ambition and a deep passion to make a difference in the breast cancer movement.

"Anyone can do it," said Walt humbly. "All you need is a love for other people and the ability to find in yourself the desire to do something... anything... to better the lives of other people. For me, that course is one day finding a cure for breast cancer, and in the meantime empowering those fighting the disease."

Walt's "secret" to raising that great sum of money is one he openly shares with anyone, and sums up in one word:

TIME.

"There is nothing really special about what I do," said Walt. "It just involves taking the time to ask people on a regular basis. I just talk to them about my goal and the great things the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate is doing every day to save lives and find a cure. Then, I tell them to write a check to Komen."

Walt went on to say that most people give because they, too, want to help make a difference.

Clearly, with a passionate heart like this, Walt didn't raise nearly $75,000 for the fame and accolades... not even for the 42" Plasma TV he won as the highest individual fundraiser for the 2008 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure. Walt's motivation was a dear friend who was diagnosed with breast cancer about twenty years ago. His activism in the breast cancer movement, which includes participating in the Race every year, is in her honor.

This year, as we mentioned, Walt is aiming for $50,000+ and the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate - as well as the thousands of women in need depending on our services and those of our Grantees - hope he has some heavy competition in the fundraising arena!

Looking for other ways to become a Race fundraising powerhouse? Click here for more great fundraising tips!

Out to beat Walt? Why not register for the Chapman Platinum challenge? It could mean for you a 3-year lease on a new Ford Fusion, compliments of Chapman Autogroup!

Pink Ribbon of the Month, February: Philadelphia Police Department

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:27:44 -0500

Providing us with stellar protection at the Race site and along the Race route, traffic assistance and crowd control, and all needs in between, the Department has been with us every step of the way in our twenty-year history... enabling us not only to put on a successful Race event, but being an exceptional role model for all of us to keep up the good fight.

"Simply put we couldn't have done it then, or now, without our loyal men and women in blue," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. "What the police contribute to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate mission cannot be measured with a mere dollar value - for how can you put a price on the hours, loyalty, creativity, and service they devote to protecting and empowering our entirety community day in and day out?"

The activism and devotion of the department manifests itself in many more ways throughout the year. From pink-bucket collections that supported our first CBS 3 Call for the Cure telethon, to simply spreading important breast cancer awareness messages within various district offices, the Police make it clear they will do anything within their reach to help advance the Komen promise to end breast cancer forever.

In this anniversary year, we'd like to give a "special shout" out to Captain Dennis Wilson of the 9th District for stepping up to serve as a liaison for other districts in the Department and the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. Through Captain Wilson's leadership, inspiration, hard work and generosity, this year we hope to see many Police teams running, walking and raising funds for the Race. In addition, the entire Komen Philadelphia Race community will be greeted with a very special Police Honor Guard to distinguish our Survivors Parade of Pink!

Captain Wilson was also the inspiration behind the very exciting - and profitable - police ride-along adventures which generated more than $8,000 for the 2009 Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball live auction. Click here to see photos of the actual ride-alongs with Mayor Michael A. Nutter.

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate congratulates Commissioner Ramsey, Captain Wilson and the entire Philadelphia Police Department on their exceptional service to our community - as skilled professionals as well as passionate activists. We sincerely thank them for everything they do for us. In all they do, this distinguished team continually helps us all to see the vision of a world without breast cancer and BELIEVE in its reality.

Shown here: The 2009 Pink Tie Ball. Mayor Michael Nutter and Sergeant John Wood of the 9th Police District congratulate each other after auctioning off two police ride-along adventures for $4,000 each.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, December: Len Weinstein

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:43:48 -0500

Len's work as a volunteer for the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure began more than three years ago, when his wife, Sherry, was diagnosed with breast cancer - it is important to know this, for this is where his passion is rooted and explains the drive behind his volunteerism. Len has served The Affiliate for about 3-1/2 years and has become our "power male," serving as the launching point for The Affiliate's entry into the male community and remaining our critical link to this community - not only keeping The Affiliate and our mission top-of-mind among men, but building their involvement as volunteers, fundraisers and communicators of breast health awareness messages. Although it is not possible to account for all the new males Len embraced over the past several years, we can offer the names of new partnerships he has nurtured, including: Temple University Football, Gilda's Club of South Jersey, City of Philadelphia Police Department; Philadelphia Flyers and the Philadelphia 76ers.

However, Len does not closet himself to men and sports, and is the first to volunteer with any event, ranging from our very formal Pink Tie Ball to our Dietz & Watson Pretty In Pig program. And while he is always willing to help with the smallest of tasks - stuffing envelopes, organizing paperwork, etc. - his activism extends far beyond the typical volunteer capacity, possessing an amazing level of leadership and intensity of work. Beyond the crucial fundraising, Len will never hesitate to share his enthusiasm for the Komen mission with anyone he meets, and in doing so, he has introduced dozens of people to the Komen volunteer experience.

"A get-it-done type of person, one look at the hours Len sends e-mails and attends events, as well as his travel log, is also a clear demonstration of his steadfast dedication," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "His hours range from 6 AM to after midnight and anywhere in between, and his travel takes him throughout eastern PA, to NJ and parts of Delaware. Simply put, Len Weinstein's volunteer work has helped - and continues to help - The Affiliate save lives. The results of his activism are improved quality of life for women with breast cancer and their families in our community and beyond."

Pictured above: Len Weinstein (left) celebrates at the 2009 Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure Kick-Off Party with Al Golden, Head Coach of Temple University Football and his wife, Kelly Golden.

Until Science Improves, Current Screening Recommendations Should Remain

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:09:08 -0500

The recent release of U.S. Preventive Services Task Force screening recommendations has stirred a great amount of upset among the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family.

I have heard from husbands outraged at the thought of any less power for their wives to defend themselves against breast cancer.

I have listened to shaken survivors who would not be alive today if not for a self exam.

I have tried to comfort many who have lost a loved one to breast cancer -- a best friend, daughter, niece -- under the age of thirty.

And, I have supported women who have never had a scare, but are scared now at that thought of not being able to maintain the early detection practices that give them confidence in life.

If you have any of these or similar feelings, I assure you that you are not alone. It is only natural -- after all, for years, you have been living the Komen vision of a world without breast cancer by advocating early detection, awareness and other potentially life-saving practices.

Next, I assure you that Susan G. Komen for the Cure dedicates, and always will dedicate, ourselves to being your best advocate in the breast cancer movement. Our stance is simple, but powerful:

Until Science Improves, Current Screening Recommendations Should Remain

Click here to read the more about Susan G. Komen for the Cure's positioning on this issue.

Susan G. Komen continues to recommend annual mammography beginning at age 40 for women of average risk, and earlier for women with known risks for breast cancer. (Please be sure to review our recommended screening guidelines)

Despite the U.S.P.S.T.F. recommendations grabbing the headlines lately, our real focus needs to remain on the fact that one-third of the women who qualify for screening under today's guidelines are not being screened... due to lack of access, education or awareness. If we can make progress with screening in vulnerable populations, we could make more progress in the fight against breast cancer.

What can you do to help? TAKE ACTION immediately by signing a petition that will help assure all women have access to life-saving screening.

Again, I thank you for making informed decisions and your support. If you have any questions or comments to communicate about this issue, please contact our office at 215-238-8900 or info@komenphiladelphia.org.

Warmest regards,

Elaine I. Grobman
Executive Director

Eliza Davis: The Teen with the Dream

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:24:36 -0500

Over a year ago, the idea was sparked when Eliza saw a similar fashion show hosted in New York, and went to her mother, Barbara, with the idea to do something like it in our community. Eliza and Barbara came to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate and presented the idea that has grown into the Philadelphia Teens for the Cure. Eliza also volunteered to intern with The Affiliate that summer. She had incredible determination, passion, resourcefulness and energy. In addition, she had her mother Barbara by her side, who not only embraced Eliza's dream, but inspired it with her courage through her own breast cancer journey. This special team committed to each other and the dream - and, the rest, as they say, is history!

Of course, it wasn't that quick, nor that easy. Eliza, Barbara, the Philadelphia Teens for the Cure Founders Committee, and the Tickled Pink! event committee invested more than six months of their lives to make it happen, to assure its absolute perfection. The result was one of those rare defining moments in the breast cancer movement -- moments that forever change the face of breast cancer and the empowerment over this horrible disease.

The passion and conviction Eliza put forth in her efforts, as well as Barbara's love, nurturing and pride in her daughter, is a dynamic for which all mothers and daughters can strive. Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, captured it beautifully in her Tickled Pink! address:

"Eliza and Barbara, you have changed the face of breast cancer. As we say in Hebrew, "'Le dor vador." From generation to generation. Like the promise made between Susan G. Komen and her sister, Nancy G. Brinker, you have made a promise, to lead, inspire and empower one generation to the next, until breast cancer is eradicated forever."

Share in the excitement of the Philadelphia Tickled Pink! evening with our photo gallery

Pictured above: Eliza Davis (left) addresses Tickled Pink! guests on November 20, as her mother, Barbara, looks on with pride and affection.

Pink Ribbon of the Month, November: The Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia Hotel

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:33:16 -0500

From General Manager Michael Walsh, to customer service teams, and wait staff, over the years, the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia has invested with the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate financially, creatively and with any and every resource we could possibly need to assure eight years of the utmost success to empower the reality of a world without breast cancer. And, they do it in ever-increasing capacities.

All year long the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia demonstrates the grassroots activism that makes Susan G. Komen for the Cure a worldwide leader. Whether we need accommodations for special guests, meeting space for a distinguished group of activists, or one of the city's most notable buildings to be awash in pink to promote breast cancer awareness, the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia never says "no" when it comes to supporting the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate mission.

And of course, we can't forget all they do for the crowning event of our partnership - the Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball. Beyond opening their doors to us for this annual celebration, the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia donates fabulous live and silent auction packages, networks with sister hotels for the donation of other "escape" packages in other cities, reserves both ballrooms as well as annexed rooms for the entire day of the Pink Tie Ball, and donates countless hours of staff time for attending committee meetings, working with our staff, setting up and breaking down.

"What the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia donates to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate and the Pink Tie Ball simply cannot be measured with a mere dollar value," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. "The hours, creativity, event planning, consultations, volunteer time, giving up of valuable space that could have been used for an event that would bring the hotel great profit... there is no end to their generosity. The Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball simply would not be the great success it is without them."

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate congratulates the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia on their exceptional service to our community - as skilled professionals as well as passionate activists - and sincerely thanks them for everything they do for us. In all they do, the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia team continually helps us all to see the vision of a world without breast cancer and BELIEVE in its reality.

Experience more of the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia & the Pink Tie Ball in our Photo Galleries

Susan G. Komen for the Cure® Receives Charity Navigator’s Coveted Four-Star Rating for FIFTH Year in a Row

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:16:50 -0400

According to Charity Navigator President and CEO Ken Berger, "This exceptional designation from Charity Navigator differentiates Susan G. Komen for the Cure from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust."

"Maintaining Charity Navigator's highest rating for fiscal soundness is an incredible achievement during these economic times, and a true testament to the hard work of the entire Susan G. Komen for the Cure family," said Elaine I. Grobman, Chief Executive Officer, Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

Click here for more information as well as to view the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Charity Navigator rating.

Nancy G. Brinker: Our Founder, Our Leader, Presidential Medal Of Freedom Recipient

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 16:11:00 -0400

This honor, coupled with Nancy's appointment as Ambassador for Cancer Control in the World Health Organization, is an extraordinary recognition of Komen for the Cure's impact here in the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate's 13-county service area, and around the world. In just one generation, Nancy's leadership and vision have enabled Komen to invest more than $1.3 billion into research, education and community health programs across the United States and beyond our borders.

These investments have brought new treatments, better outcomes and better support for millions of women and men in the United States facing a breast cancer diagnosis.

Around the world, almost a decade of Komen's work with governments and health leaders is bearing fruit in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Latin America and Africa... low- and middle-income areas of the world where the need is very great and resources for women are very scarce.

Nancy Brinker will be undertaking significant cancer challenges in her role with the World Health Organization. Fortunately, twenty-seven years doing the tough work, at the forefront of the breast cancer movement, has prepared her, as well as Komen, for the challenges ahead.

We hope you will continue to join the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate in our local - and global - battle against breast cancer... and, as always, thank you for you dedication to the Komen vision of a world without breast cancer.

Pink Ribbon Of The Month, September: I.B.E.W. Local Union 98

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:50:47 -0400

This month, we are proud to honor the I.B.E.W. Local Union 98 team with our “Pink Ribbon of the Month.” In their devoted breast cancer activism, this group exemplifies teamwork to the utmost degree, demonstrating an outstanding love for their community and stellar ability to inspire each other in creating a formidable "union" in the fight to end this disease. Their clear passion for the Komen promise is an inspiration for us all.

In fact, to drive home their conviction that as a team - one community fighting together - we WILL see an end to breast cancer, I.B.E.W. has been the exclusive Team Champion for all Susan G. Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure^® teams since 2006. Not only does this Team Champion position involve a very substantial monetary donation to the Race each year, but it provides a spirited leadership to Team Captains and team members that undoubtedly has inspired thousands to give it their all to raise funds and embrace everyone they know in the hope of the cure.

For nearly two years, I.B.E.W. Business Manager, John Dougherty has deepened his activism in helping to save lives by serving on the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate Board of Directors. Lending to the Board his leadership experience, resources, endless hours and passion for giving back, Dougherty has been a unique asset whose ideas and get-it-done approach have certainly helped to shape the recent progress of The Affiliate in empowering thousands to fight breast cancer.

"Part of John's legacy with I.B.E.W. has been the creation of a union culture that always remembers to give to those in need, and give back to the community that remains loyal to them," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "To that end, he has inspired I.B.E.W.’s members to donate their time and talents in support of numerous charitable organizations. Perhaps the strongest embodiment of this is their activism in support of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. We are fortunate and honored to call him and every member of I.B.E.W. Local Union 98 our dearest friends in the fight against breast cancer."

In addition to being the exclusive Team Champion of more than 1,000 Race teams, and being active members of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate family for more than five years, Dougherty and I.B.E.W. members put their feet where their mouths are, by walking as a team on Race day and raising thousands of dollars in team funds. From walking, generating funds and raising awareness, to volunteering, and even donating their outdoor advertising to The Affiliate to spread the word about the Race, I.B.E.W.'s passion shows no boundaries.

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate congratulates I.B.E.W. on their exceptional service to our community - as skilled professionals, as well as passionate activists - and sincerely thanks them for everything they do for us. In all they do, I.B.E.W. continually helps us all to see the vision of a world without breast cancer and BELIEVE in its reality.

Pictured: In the center Elaine I. Grobman and John "Johnny Doc" Dougherty (with visor) pose with other I.B.E.W. members helping to present a generous donation at the 2009 I.B.E.W. annual family picnic.

Pink Ribbon Of The Month, August: Temple University Football

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:37:33 -0400

This month, we are proud to honor Al, Kelly, the players, spirit teams, staff and supporters of Temple University Football with our "Pink Ribbon of the Month." More than a year ago, the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure was approached by Al and Kelly, who were simply looking to get involved and support the Komen promise. Little did we know this "involvement" would include 110% dedication, energy and action not just from Al and Kelly, but from anyone and everyone related to Temple Football - from coaches and players, to cheerleaders, communications teams and fans.

This July, the Philadelphia Sports Congress recognized Al and the team with its 2009 Community Service Award for tremendous outreach into the community. At the award ceremony, Coach Golden turned right around and announced the donation of the monetary portion of the award to the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. This amazing gesture was yet another demonstration of their complete devotion to empowering the fight against breast cancer in our community.

"Temple University's mission will always be rooted in the personal potential of those that comprise our own communities," said Coach Golden. "For our student-athletes, stewardship, gratitude, and contributing to the comfort of the less fortunate are part of our team's fabric and one of the pillars of our leadership philosophy. They have not only devoted time, but have chosen a cause beyond oneself."

In addition, last October, Temple Football launched Owls for the Cure,^™ culminating in a moving "pink out" of Lincoln Financial Field, which helped heighten awareness far and wide (the game was broadcast nationally on ESPN 2) while also raising thousands of dollars for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. But that initiative was only the beginning. The team has selflessly dedicated hours of hard work - during the height of their season - volunteering for the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure, Komen Breast Cancer 3 Day, and more. Wherever they go, this team warms every heart, radiating happiness, confidence in a cure and hope that a world without breast cancer is just around the corner.

"It's difficult to point to a single aspect that makes our relationship with Temple Football so meaningful," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "Perhaps it can best be summed up by the phrase 'a new generation.' This team continually impresses the point that, to them, Komen represents an opportunity to be part of the breast cancer movement and to make a statement that they are the generation that will lead us to a world without breast cancer."

The Komen Philadelphia Affiliate congratulates Temple Football on their recent award, and sincerely thanks them for all they do for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, as well as to serve many important needs throughout our community. In all they do, Temple Football continually helps us to dream bigger and make it happen.

Photo by Cathy Bongiovi/Temple Athletics. Pictured at the Philadelphia Sports Congress Award Ceremonies on July 8, 2009 (L to R): Lamar McPherson, Deven Baker, Ryan McNamee, Danial McNamee, Al Golden, Amara Kamara, Dominique Harris, and Marlin Terrell.

Pink Ribbon Of The Month, July: Mel Silverman

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 21:14:24 -0400

In the years between that first Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure and the Race this past May, Silverman has brought his unique brand of activism in the breast cancer movement to his clients, his employees, the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the thousands of people they serve. Most recently, at a young "seventy something," Silverman introduced an innovative Alternative Hair department (shown above) to Salon L'Etoile & Spa, inspired by the needs of women undergoing breast cancer treatment.

"I wouldn't have been able to get through my breast cancer diagnosis and treatment without the confidence, fun and security Mel's pink wig gave me," said Lisa Woods, Philadelphia resident. "Mel didn't just give me an alternative look to 'bald,' he gave me compassion and an opportunity to express myself while fighting a very tough uphill battle."

The newly opened Salon L'Etoile & Spa Alternative Hair department is the brainchild of Silverman, who, having been active as a volunteer in the fight against breast cancer for nearly twenty years, had a more in-depth understanding of the emotions women experience when faced with losing their hair to chemotherapy or radiation. He opened the department to provide these women with something meaningful, to thank his customers and to show women that Salon L'Etoile & Spa truly cares. Looking ahead, he intends to contribute proceeds from the Alternative Hair department to support the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

"Thank goodness, I never had breast cancer strike any member of my family, which I know is rare," said Silverman. "But in my business and various volunteer efforts I've seen how important looking good is to feeling good - especially among cancer patients. Our Alternative Hair service is about providing much more than a pretty wig… it is about providing security, comfort and pride during a time that can be full of pain and darkness."

The Salon L'Etoile & Spa Alternative Hair department specializes in customizing wigs to fit the personality of the customer - from natural-hair pieces to synthetics that can be curled or straightened to "suit the mood." Not just for breast cancer patients, the stylists make an effort to understand the special needs of all women facing hair loss to maintain their womanly looks.

"When I saw Lisa on Race day proudly wearing her pink wig, and then saw her family and friends in their pink wigs to show her their support… well, you simply can't ask for greater career satisfaction than that," said Silverman.

Silverman's activism with the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate earned him their special Community Activism award, as well as accolades from the Affiliate staff and fellow volunteers. Among many other duties, for nineteen years Silverman has organized, staffed and run the water station at the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure, assuring more than 40,000 people crossing the finish line have water. In addition, he volunteers countless hours providing hair cuts for children with cancer as well as their parents who spend weeks with them in the hospital. He also started a volunteer program to help children with physical deformities find their special beauty through hair and makeup styling.

"Mel has been an invaluable friend to me and thousands of women," said Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. "He possesses a passion for the cure that is truly rare and is already serving as a legacy for generations to follow. It is people like Mel that assure that one day we will all be living in a world without breast cancer.

With locations in Jenkintown, PA and Manayunk, PA, more information on Salon L'Etoile & Spa is available at www.salonletoile.com.

Pictured above (center) Lisa Woods proudly displays her "Mel Masterpiece" pink wig. Also picture are 2009-2010 Komen Philadelphia Race chairs Rachel Cicalese (Left) and Lorelei McGlade.

Pink Ribbon Of The Month, June: The Star Group

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:17:36 -0400

This month, we are proud to honor the entire team at The Star Group and its Co-Founder/CEO, Linda Rosanio, with our "Pink Ribbon of the Month." Together they show incredible creativity, teamwork and dedication in driving an entire company as well as the communities in which they do business to get involved in raising funds and awareness. Their clear passion for the Komen promise, as well as outstanding ability to embrace all walks of life in the breast cancer movement, is an inspiration for us all.

Much more than just a company who provides marketing support for the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, from day one The Star Group has empowered us with an incredible suite of professional advertising and PR capabilities integrated with a personal commitment by everyone on the Star-Komen Philadelphia team to embrace the Komen vision. Throughout the agency you'll find the team taking the steps necessary to help make a world without breast cancer a reality - steps far above-and-beyond what one would consider typical "client service."

One clear-cut example of this is the 2009 Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball. When we approached Linda Rosanio and Jan Talmeo, Co-Founder/CEO and Co-Founder/CCO of The Star Group, respectively, to volunteer as event co-chairs, they not only accepted the position with tremendous enthusiasm, they thanked us for the opportunity to pursue their personal passion in the fight against breast cancer. In the few short months since their appointment as co-chairs, Linda, Jan and numerous members of The Star Group team have dedicated personal time and professional talents to secure Pink Tie Ball patrons and set in motion many great additions to the event.

In addition, last month, The Star Group staff rallied to create a Race for the Cure team and raise funds through the second annual "Mama Catelli's Meatball Fundraiser." In just one short afternoon lunch break in their Voorhees and Philadelphia offices, The Star Group raised more than $1,300 for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate. Shown here, working the buffet line was the Mama Catelli Event Committee including: Connie Fithian, Linda Rosanio, Karen Catelli, Kate Talamo, Lisa Fellman, Stephanie Dromgoole, "Mama" Nancy Catelli and Denise Pereau.

Plus, starting this summer, everyone can look for "The Caring Cup" in selected supermarkets-another innovation of The Star Group to leverage a popular product of one of their clients in order to raise money and awareness for our community's fight against breast cancer.

In all they do for the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate, the Star Group continually helps us to "dream bigger" and make it happen. We hope everyone can use The Star Group story to inspire their own activism.

Pink Ribbon Of The Month, April 2009: Jane Lopoten School Of Dance

Sun, 17 May 2009 17:38:18 -0400

This month, we are proud to honor Jane Lopoten and the students, parents and friends of the Jane Lopoten School of Dance with our “pink ribbon of the month,” for showing incredible innovation and creativity in motivating an entire community to get involved in raising funds and awareness. Their clear passion for the Komen promise, as well as outstanding ability to embrace the next generation in the breast cancer movement, is an inspiration for us all.

A friend of the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate for more than five years, Jane and the Jane Lopoten School of Dance have done everything from hosting unique, community-wide fundraisers (like this spring's Pink Tie Tea shown above), to volunteering for the Komen Philadelphia Pink Tie Ball, to performing inspirational dances on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art as part of the Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure tradition. Over the years, the dance school has raised nearly $40,000 to support the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate.

When asked to identify the highlight of her thirty-year career as a dance instructor, without hesitation Jane Lopoten will say, the Susan G. Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure: “To see my girls be a part of something so huge is the most thrilling achievement of my career.”

For the past six Mother’s Days, Jane, the Owner/Director of Jane Lopoten’s School of Dance in Lansdale, has been prepping her dance students at 5:00 AM on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where they inspire a crowd of more than 100,000 Race for the Cure attendees. Their “celebrate life” performance has become a much cherished tradition at the Race.

With one woman dying from breast cancer every 13 minutes in the U.S., sadly every girl in Jane’s school has been touched by the disease in her young life. More than just dancing on Race day, Jane embraces the Komen mission to end breast cancer by integrating it into her dance school - encouraging the girls to be aware, to be comfortable with the topic, and to teach their mothers, too.

Some may ask, why start at such a young age? The answer lies in the story of one of Jane’s 16-year old students who had a lump in her breast. For quite some time, she told no one, until the lessons learned at the School of Dance convinced her not to be embarrassed. She then found the courage to talk to her parents, seek treatment and now lives to “dance again.”

For helping to save this young girl's life… and the lives of countless others… the Komen Philadelphia Affiliate will proudly honor Jane with our Power of the Promise award at the 2009 Celebrate Life! luncheon. We also encourage all of you to be empowered by the example of the Jane Lopoten School of Dance, and experience the beauty of their art on the Art Museum steps this Mother's Day.

From Broad Street to Budapest: Igniting the Promise

Sun, 17 May 2009 17:45:10 -0400

In September 2007, Elaine I. Grobman, Executive Director of the Philadelphia Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure was in Budapest, Hungary as one of twenty-five breast cancer advocates chosen to represent the U.S. at the breakthrough Susan G. Komen for the Cure Ignite the Promise global breast cancer advocate summit.

When she headed up the first Komen Philadelphia Race for the Cure® eighteen years ago, Grobman never imagined the local fight would lead to a role in an international effort for a cure.

"Certainly, we need to continue the fight against breast cancer with even greater passion here at home," said Grobman. "But what the Ignite the Promise summit made clear is that we also have to start building a bridge to connect third-world countries with the awareness, education, technology and medicine that have allowed the U.S. to make progress against the disease. Only by sharing our knowledge and advances will we be able to wipe out breast cancer for future generations."

Seen by Komen as a thought-leader and steadfast activist with a vision of a global end to breast cancer, Grobman was chosen to attend Ignite the Promise, where delegates from 30 countries gathered to elevate the dialogue on breast cancer's global impact and share strategies used to combat breast cancer in their local communities.

"My experiences at the summit were gratifying, but also very humbling. So many of us hope for a chance to influence our 'little corner of the world'... I was given that chance. I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to share in the insights of leading breast cancer advocates, and then bring them home to empower the fight in our community."

From the discussions at the summit, Grobman feels it is evident that individuals, and corporate and healthcare leaders from more advanced communities need to unite in a global strategy for pooling resources to provide the dollars, education, technology and support that are in dire need-or simply don't exist-elsewhere.

"There are leaders in these countries struggling to break the barriers to quality breast health care, but even with international support it could be a long, frustrating road. For instance, we can start to educate women, but in many countries there are not enough facilities to allow them to carry out early detection practices."

In Pune, India, for example, home to 3.5 million women, there is just one facility that provides comprehensive breast cancer services.

From cultural beliefs and poverty, to geography and medical practices, barriers exist inside and outside the U.S. The good news is, due to far-reaching initiatives like the Komen Ignite the Promise summit, what was once thought to be a disease of the Western world is becoming a global concern with leaders fighting back here at home and abroad to bring hope women everywhere.