Shop Pink & Partners | Breast Cancer Research Foundation https://www.bcrf.org/blog/shop-pink-partners/ The mission of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation is to prevent and cure breast cancer by advancing the world's most promising breast cancer research. Mon, 26 Feb 2024 20:47:25 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.bcrf.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/favicon.ico Shop Pink & Partners | Breast Cancer Research Foundation https://www.bcrf.org/blog/shop-pink-partners/ 32 32 8 Holiday Gifts That Give Back to BCRF https://www.bcrf.org/8-holiday-gifts-that-give-back-to-bcrf/ Mon, 18 Dec 2023 22:04:08 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/?p=26009 Delight friends and family with these picks that fund lifesaving research

Still haven’t found the perfect gift for all the loved ones on your list? Look no further: These gifts are ones they’re sure to treasure, and they support the work of BCRF’s more than 250 researchers who are getting us closer to the end of breast cancer every day. 

The items below are just some of the highlights from our Shop Pink collection. You can see more corporate partner products that give back here.

An ideal stocking stuffer, Aveda’s Hand Relief Moisturizing Crème with Rosemary Mint Aroma pampers hands made dry and rough by winter weather. The company is donating 50 percent from the purchase price up to a maximum of $350,000 to BCRF. To buy

All eyes will be on your loved one’s ears when they wear Kendra Scott’s sparkling Mayel Huggie Earrings in White Crystal, which are part of the Kendra Scott x Nasreen Shahi from @heynasreen collection benefitting BCRF. Twenty percent of the purchase price up to $185,000 funds BCRF research. To buy.

Every man looks great in denim, especially Madewell’s Men’s Athletic Slim Selvedge Jeans in Penwood Wash, which feature a flattering cut and old-school feel. This year, Madewell is donating 50 percent of the purchase price to BCRF through 12/31. To buy.

Give the gift of great hair days—and less time spent getting ready—with Conair’s All-In-One Compact Oval Dryer Brush that dries and styles hair simultaneously. The company is donating $100,000 to BCRF regardless of sales. To buy.

Your ultra-organized friends and family members can keep their busy life running smoothly and stylishly when you add a pink ribbon personalization to your gift of any Gallery Leather, planner, journal, or other eligible products. One hundred percent of the Pink Ribbon price funds the work of BCRF investigators. To buy.

Coach is supporting BCRF by donating 20 percent of the purchase price (up to a total of $30,000) of this glittery pink version of their classic Elliott Watch—a glamorous accent to just about every outfit in your loved one’s closet. To buy.

Treat denim lovers to Madewell’s Women’s ‘90s Straight Jean in Penwood Wash: BCRF Selvedge Edition. This pair is designed to accentuate curves—thanks to a higher back rise—and features authentic fading and distressing. Fifty percent of the purchase price supports BCRF investigators through 12/31. To buy.

For the fashion-forward person in your life, Corral Boots’ bold Hot Pink Ankle Boots are big on style and comfort. Worn with a dress or jeans, this BCRF-exclusive shade brings a striking pop of color that is sure to turn heads.  Corral Boots is donating $3.00 per pair sold to BCRF regardless of sales. To buy.

]]>
Jewelry That Funds Breast Cancer Research https://www.bcrf.org/jewelry-that-funds-breast-cancer-research/ Wed, 25 Oct 2023 15:18:32 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/?p=25794 Glimmer for a good cause with necklaces, bracelets, and more from BCRF’s Shop Pink jewelry partners

Whether you’re searching for a meaningful gift or simply want to treat yourself, these Shop Pink jewelry pieces from BCRF’s partners are a beautiful way to support lifesaving breast cancer research. We’ve gathered options in a range of prices that add sparkle to any outfit, whether you’re dressing up for a special event or relaxing in your yoga pants.

Anne Klein Rose Gold Bow Necklace & Earring Set

Add a sweet touch to your look with this rose gold tone necklace and earrings that feature pave stones. Regardless of sales, Anne Klein will donate $10,000 to support BCRF. To buy

Coach Elliot Watch

A do-good spin on a classic Coach design, the Elliot watch has a glittery pink dial and enamel pink ribbon to show support for the breast cancer community. Coach will donate 20 percent of the purchase price of each watch sold, up to a total of $30,000, to BCRF. To buy

Sabika Pink Power 2023 Mega Drop Earrings

Set in antique silver, Sabika’s new bright pink peony crystal earrings are the perfect balance of glamour and fun.  This October, Sabika will donate $8 per earring purchase to BCRF’s critical mission to end breast cancer. To buy

Kendra Scott x Nasreen Shahi Ashrafa Gold Eye Delicate Chain Bracelet

Part of a collection launched by Kendra Scott with fashion influencer and breast cancer thriver Nasreen Shahi (from @heynasreen) in October, this emerald and crystal bracelet signifies positivity. Twenty percent of the purchase price, up to $185,000, goes to BCRF. To buy

Jennifer Miller Jewelry 2023 Hope Necklace

This simple yet elegant pink pearl toggle paperclip is on trend and perfect for any occasion. Jennifer Miller Jewelry will donate 20 percent of the purchase price to BCRF. To buy

Tiff’s Treats Cookie Delivery Melinda Necklace

An exclusive design for Tiff’s Treats Cookie Delivery by Kendra Scott, this necklace with a gold pendant in Aqua Illusion was named after Tiff’s sister Melinda, a breast cancer thriver. Tiff’s Treats will donate 20 percent of sales up to $10,000 to BCRF (Melinda’s chosen recipient). To buy

Gorjana Classic Pink Sapphire Necklace

Part of Gorjana’s annual Pink Collection that gives back to breast cancer research, this delicate yet eye-catching necklace features a pink sapphire set on a 14K gold chain. Gorjana will donate 50 percent of the purchase price to BCRF during the month of October. To buy 

David Yurman Cable Collectibles Pink Enamel Ribbon

Show your support for research and the breast cancer community with this classic enamel and sterling silver pink ribbon pin. David Yurman, a BCRF partner since 2008, will donate 20 percent of the $200 piece to research through July 2024. To buy

Stephanie Gottlieb I AM: Thriving Bracelet

Another gorgeous piece starring a pretty pink sapphire, this bracelet surrounds the gem in a 14K rose gold heart-shaped bezel. Stephanie Gottlieb will generously donate 20 percent of the purchase price of each bracelet sold to BCRF. To buy

LAGOS Pink Ceramic Caviar Diamond Ring

A luxe piece featuring diamonds set in sterling silver and accented by pink ceramic and Caviar beading, this LAGOS ring is a showstopper. The company will donate $30,000 to BCRF this year, regardless of sales. To buy

John Hardy Limited Edition Spear Flex Cuff

Part of John Hardy’s Pink Gemstone Collection, this rose gold bracelet with pink sapphire accents is a classic you’ll wear again and again. For the month of October, John Hardy is donating 20 percent of the purchase price from their Pink Gemstone Collection to BCRF. To buy

Find more great gifts that fund breast cancer research, including gifts for breast cancer patients and survivors, and browse all Shop Pink products.
]]>
Lifetime Launches 2023 BCRF-Supporting Campaign with Keshia Knight Pulliam and Rachel Lindsay https://www.bcrf.org/lifetime-launches-2023-bcrf-supporting-campaign-with-keshia-knight-pulliam-and-rachel-lindsay/ Wed, 11 Oct 2023 18:56:36 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/?p=25642 The television network will share a new breast cancer PSA and other inspiring and educational material throughout October

Longtime BCRF partner Lifetime is once again supporting breast cancer research through its just-launched “Stop Breast Cancer for Life” public service initiative. This year’s PSA, which supports BCRF, is focused on the importance of breast cancer screening and emphasizes that screenings should not be “one size fits all.” It stars award-winning actress and host Keshia Knight Pulliam (Married at First Sight: AfterpartyA New Orleans Noel) and TV correspondent Rachel Lindsay (ExtraThe BacheloretteDevil at my Doorstep), both of whom have had friends and family affected by breast cancer. The PSA is presented by Ulta—another BCRF partner—and will run on Lifetime and across a variety of digital platforms.

BCRF Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Dorraya El-Ashry applauded Lifetime’s support and this year’s “Stop Breast Cancer for Life” initiative. 

“We are grateful for Lifetime’s continued commitment to shining a light on breast cancer every year,” she said. “Screening is key to early detection, which we know to be vital in improving outcomes and saving lives. While we’ve made significant strides in reducing mortality rates, there is still an urgent need to cure the disease and, simultaneously, find a way to prevent it entirely. With Lifetime’s support, we hope more women are empowered to take control of their health.”

In addition, BCRF will once again name the “Lifetime Award” to support the work of one of our leading researchers. The grant will be presented at BCRF’s Symposium & Awards Luncheon on October 20th.

Lifetime’s ongoing effort to provide people with the most up-to-date, comprehensive information about breast cancer doesn’t end there. A second PSA about screening, featuring First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, will run on air and on Lifetime’s social platforms. 

Go here for more information about the “Stop Breast Cancer for Life” campaign and how you can support BCRF.

]]>
BCRF, Dolphins Challenge Cancer, and AutoNation Team Up to Tackle Breast Cancer Disparities https://www.bcrf.org/teaming-up-to-tackle-breast-cancer-disparities/ Mon, 09 Oct 2023 18:48:52 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/?p=25303 A new partnership will fund research exploring the relationship between social determinants of health and breast cancer mortality

More than one kickoff took place at the Miami Dolphins game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, September 24, 2023. Before play began, BCRF partners Dolphins Challenge Cancer, the signature philanthropic initiative of the Miami Dolphins, and AutoNation announced a $1 million, 4-year commitment that, this year, will support BCRF investigator Dr. Neha Goel and her research into disparities in breast cancer outcomes.

Representatives from BCRF, Dolphins Challenge Cancer, and AutoNation joined Dr. Goel on the field at Hard Rock Stadium as the partnership launch video played throughout the stadium to more than 65,000 fans in attendance. The video, which features Dr. Goel and Jaelan Phillips, the Miami Dolphins linebacker who also serves on the Board of Directors for Dolphins Challenge Cancer, detailed the disproportionate disparities in breast cancer incidence and outcomes experienced by Black and Hispanic and Latin American women, and outlined the potential impact to close these gaps of the study that will be supported by this partnership. 

Dr. Goel said she was humbled and honored to receive funding from BCRF, Dolphins Challenge Cancer, and AutoNation.

“These organizations are impactful players in the cancer research space and are really leading by example in our shared quest to inform novel cancer control interventions geared to improve the lives of all our patients by ending cancer disparities,” said Dr. Goel, member of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, associate professor of surgery in the DeWitt Daughtry Family Department of Surgery at the Miller School of Medicine, and John K. and Judy H. Schulte Endowed Chair in Cancer Research.  

The funding supports Dr. Goel’s study of the links between two social determinants of health—geographic location and environmental stress—and breast cancer mortality. Previous research has shown that women living in low-income neighborhoods have a higher breast cancer mortality rate compared to those in affluent neighborhoods. 

“Dr. Goel’s research will help to define how one’s neighborhood…impacts their breast cancer, not just in terms of access to care, but also in terms of its influence over the tumor’s characteristics and behavior, and, ultimately, their survival outcomes.”

—Dr. Dorraya El-Ashry, BCRF Chief Scientific Officer

Social determinants of health are just one of several factors intrinsically linked to racial disparities in breast cancer outcomes. While groundbreaking research has led to a 43 percent decline in breast cancer deaths over the past three decades, the scientific advancements that contributed to the decrease have yet to reach some communities. Minorities encounter significant disparities in breast cancer screening, care, treatment, and outcomes compared to their white peers. For example, despite slightly lower rates of breast cancer, Black women are 41 percent more likely to die of the disease than white women. Hispanic and Latino also have lower rates of the disease but are more likely to be diagnosed at later stages with more aggressive forms of breast cancer. 

Dr. Goel’s study is just one of several investigations into racial disparities in breast cancer currently funded by BCRF. Click here to learn more about these projects and why these unacceptable disparities persist. 

 

]]>
5 Gifts That Give Back to Breast Cancer Research https://www.bcrf.org/5-gifts-that-give-back-to-breast-cancer-research/ Wed, 04 Oct 2023 16:14:51 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/?p=25280 Make a loved one’s day brighter with a gift that funds the lifesaving work of the world’s best scientists.

Whether you are celebrating a birthday or anniversary, marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, or simply wanting to brighten someone’s day, consider a gift that gives back. BCRF’s wide array of partner products all support the mission to eradicate breast cancer through funding critical research.

Last year alone, BCRF’s Shop Pink partners donated a total of $40 million to BCRF, funding 800,000 hours of breast cancer research. As the largest private funder of breast cancer research—and metastatic breast cancer research—worldwide, this lifesaving work would not happen without the support of these products that give back.

While shopping these great brands and products, you can rest assured that your gift will make a meaningful difference. BCRF’s Shop Pink program upholds rigorous transparency standards and has been recognized as the gold standard of cause marketing.

Below, we’ve rounded up five gifts that will delight someone special in your life while also supporting BCRF’s more than 250 scientists across the globe.

Coach Elliot Watch

This version of Coach’s classic Elliott design features a sleek mesh bracelet and a pink ribbon marker to show your support for the breast cancer community. The company will donate 20% of the purchase price up to a total of $30,000 to BCRF to fund breast cancer research. To buy

TIEM Slipstream Cycling Shoe in Triple Pink

Each October, TIEM releases a new pink cycling shoe to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and this year’s edition is not to be missed. The Slipstream delivers high performance without sacrificing comfort the perfect gift that gives back for any cycling enthusiast. This year, TIEM is donating 10% of the purchase price to BCRF to fund critical hours in the lab. To buy

Cuisinart Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream & Sorbet Maker

Does someone in your life have a sweet tooth? Gift them the opportunity to make their favorite frozen treats at home. A partner since 2007, Cuisinart commits $32,500 to BCRF annually, regardless of sales, and has funded over 9,550 hours of critical breast cancer research. To buy

Teleflora Pink Grace Bouquet

Mark someone’s special moment with this bouquet that supports breast cancer research. Featuring a pink array of roses, spray roses, carnations, and alstroemeria, this arrangement is sure to make any person in your life feel loved. This year, Teleflora will donate 15% of the purchase price to BCRF, adding to the over $890,000 they’re given since 2007. To buy

Jo Malone London Peony & Blush Suede Cologne

Give the gift of luxury with this iconic scent from Jo Malone London. The perfume—featuring notes of peony, red apple, and suede—is packaged in a limited-edition bottle to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Jo Malone London will donate 50% from the purchase price, up to a maximum of $60,000, to BCRF. To buy

Find more gifts for breast cancer patients and survivors and browse all Shop Pink products.
]]>
6 Thoughtful Gifts for Breast Cancer Patients https://www.bcrf.org/6-thoughtful-gifts-for-breast-cancer-patients/ Fri, 22 Sep 2023 19:02:09 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/?p=24949 Show how much you care with these Shop Pink products that fund lifesaving research

If you have a loved one who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, you know how overwhelming the disease can be. There are many ways to support a breast cancer patient in your life—whether it’s cooking meals, offering rides to treatment, taking care of children, or simply being there to listen. This Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you can also give your loved one a gift that shows how much they mean to you—and supports BCRF’s mission to fuel lifesaving breast cancer research.

Shop Pink products are all guaranteed to give back to BCRF, the world’s largest private funder of breast cancer research and metastatic breast cancer research. This year, BCRF is supporting more than 250 researchers around the globe who are dedicated to eradicating the disease. Since 1993, BCRF-funded investigators have been behind every major breakthrough in breast cancer research. Their work has led to improvements in early detection, prevention, treatment, and our understanding of the disease

When you shop products from BCRF’s official partners, you can trust that your purchase will make an impact. All of our Shop Pink partners are held to rigorous transparency requirements, and BCRF’s corporate partner program has been recognized as the gold standard for cause marketing.

Here are six gift ideas for breast cancer patients that fund critical, innovative research.

Papyrus Perfume Florals Blank Greeting Card

Make someone with breast cancer’s day a little brighter by writing a caring message in this premium card from Papyrus. For every limited-edition card sold from Papyrus’ BCRF stationery collection, the company donates 25 cents to research. To buy.

InComm Vanilla Visa BCRF Flowers Gift Card & Pink Ribbon Gift Card

Support a loved one with breast cancer by covering the cost of groceries, home cleaning, rides to treatment, or anything else they might need with an InComm Vanilla Visa Gift Card. Available for use anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted, InComm donates 100% of the gift card’s purchase fee to BCRF with a minimum donation of $10,000. To buy.

Vionic Walker Classic Sneaker

Walk in comfort and style with Vionic’s popular sneaker in Cameo Pink. Vionic’s Vio Motion technology provides your loved one with stability, arch support, and cushioning. Vionic donates $50,000 to BCRF regardless of sales, funding critical lifesaving breast cancer research. To buy.

NakedCashmere LOVE Socks

These soft cashmere socks with white heart embroidery will keep the person with breast cancer in your life warm and remind them they are loved. Available in colors Nude and Smoke, NakedCashmere donates $25 to BCRF from each pair of socks sold, supporting critical breast cancer research. To buy.

Gallery Leather 2024 Desk Weekly Planner in Acadia Hope with Pink Ribbon

Breast cancer treatment comes with many appointments and doctor’s visits. Support your loved one by helping them keep their medical care organized with Gallery Leather’s customized planners with pink ribbon personalization. For every product customized with a $5 pink ribbon, Gallery Leather will donate 100% of the amount to BCRF. To buy.

Lands’ End Women’s Cozy Gown Sleep Set

Give the gift of comfort with this buttery-soft and warm sleep set from Land’s End. This year, Lands’ End will donate $25,000 regardless of sales, and has raised over $540,000 for research to date. To buy.

Find more great gifts that fund breast cancer research, including gifts for breast cancer survivors, and browse all Shop Pink products.
]]>
BCRF Celebrates Partners’ Dedication to Research https://www.bcrf.org/bcrf-celebrates-partners-dedication-to-research/ https://www.bcrf.org/bcrf-celebrates-partners-dedication-to-research/#respond Wed, 13 Sep 2023 21:05:25 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/?p=24775 We recognize six partners for their long-standing commitment to breast cancer research

BCRF’s vital mission would not be possible without the support of our corporate partners. By harnessing the power of their consumers, communities, and employees, more than 100 brands are currently funding scientific investigators across the globe.

This year, BCRF honors six dedicated partners that have been part of our mission for five, 10, 15, and 20 years. Their continued commitment enables BCRF investigators to uncover more breakthroughs and improve outcomes through life-changing research.

20 Years

Conair

BCRF has been proud to partner with Conair for two decades. Through their Power of Pink Collection of beauty and hair care products, Conair has raised over $2.1 million for breast cancer research. Learn More

15 Years

David Yurman

Iconic jewelry brand David Yurman has created an annual collection in support of BCRF for the past 15 years—raising more than $2.7 million total. With millions donated to date, the company backs The David Yurman Award for Breast Cancer Research, which funds the work of BCRF investigators Drs. Sarat Chandarlapaty and Hayley McDaid. Learn more

Movado

During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Movado Group, Inc. releases a line of watches to fuel research through BCRF. To date, the Movado Group Foundation has donated nearly $1.7 million to BCRF’s mission, funding over 33,000 hours of research. Learn more

10 Years

koi

koi has been a valued partner for the past decade. With $186,000 funded to date, koi has committed to donating $1-2 per scrub top sold with a minimum donation of $15,000 regardless of sales. Learn more

5 Years

Erin Condren

Since 2018, lifestyle brand Erin Condren has created a special Breast Cancer Awareness collection of planners featuring designs for—and inspired by—breast cancer thrivers. Erin Condren donates 35 percent of each purchase to BCRF and has funded more than 2,400 hours ($120,000) of research to date. Learn more

TIEM

TIEM has made an impact as a BCRF partner since 2018, funding more than 3,600 hours of research to date by raising more than $184,000. Throughout the year, TIEM donates 10 percent of the purchase price from sales of pink cycling shoes and training sneakers. Learn more

]]>
https://www.bcrf.org/bcrf-celebrates-partners-dedication-to-research/feed/ 0
What Companies Stand to Gain From Partnering With a Nonprofit https://www.bcrf.org/bcrf-corporate-philanthropy-nonprofit-partnerships/ https://www.bcrf.org/bcrf-corporate-philanthropy-nonprofit-partnerships/#respond Wed, 21 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/blog/bcrf-corporate-philanthropy-nonprofit-partnerships/ And how to pick the right cause and charity

Companies and brands have been powerful forces for good in philanthropy—helping propel many nonprofit missions forward and supporting important work in numerous causes and fields.

By galvanizing their collective millions of consumers, employees, and brands, BCRF’s world-class partners have funded 7.6 million hours of lifesaving breast cancer research since our founding. Simply put: Our progress and the incredible breakthroughs we have made in breast cancer—from prevention to metastasis—wouldn’t have been possible without these dedicated and passionate companies and brands.

Maybe your brand’s leadership hasn’t considered a corporate giving program. Or maybe your brand is looking to launch its first philanthropic initiative or deepen its existing program by adding a new nonprofit partner. Whatever the reason, the time could not be better to give back, set your brand apart in the market, engage customers and employees—and so much more.

As the highest-rated breast cancer research organization in the country, BCRF has helped set the standard for corporate philanthropy and cause marketing. Our cause marketing program is recognized as the “gold standard” for the nonprofit sector by the New York State Attorney General’s Office for a reason.

Here, we offer our advice for identifying a cause and finding a reputable nonprofit to support—and why such a partnership is a win-win.

Why your brand should partner with a nonprofit

Beyond advancing a great cause, a partnership with a reputable nonprofit comes with several surprising secondary benefits for companies themselves.

Top among them: When a company shows that it lives up to its values—such as through a robust nonprofit partnership—it can generate positive sentiment and more credibility with consumers, employees, shareholders, and other stakeholders.

Nonprofit partners can also help companies communicate the importance of a given mission or cause to both consumers and employees. BCRF partners have encouraged women to stay on top of screenings and helped promote science-based, potentially lifesaving information about breast cancer to their millions of email subscribers, social media followers, and employees, and so much more.

For employees specifically, a nonprofit partnership provides an opportunity to make their work more meaningful. According to a 2021 survey from the management consulting company Gartner, 56 percent of employees said that the COVID-19 pandemic made them “want to contribute more to society.” In other words, many employees now want to feel their work has purpose and to see how their directives and goals contribute to that purpose. Donations to a nonprofit can help.

At BCRF, our corporate partners’ employees have rallied to independently fundraise for lifesaving breast cancer research, and many—particularly breast cancer thrivers and their loved ones—have shared that activations for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and beyond make them feel especially proud of where they work.

“Every single year I am blown away by the commitment of our employees and customers to come together to support BCRF and its mission of finding a cure,” said Allison Ausband, executive vice president and chief customer experience officer at longtime BCRF partner Delta Air Lines. “At Delta, giving back is in our DNA, and BCRF is [one] way we support each other and the local communities where Delta people live, work, and serve.”

More and more, consumers want to support brands that do good. A recent McKinsey survey on consumer sentiment found this to be especially true of Millennial and Gen Z shoppers. More than two-thirds of younger respondents said environmental, social, and governance factors were very important to them, and their top concern was that a company showed it “put people before profits.” Thoughtful nonprofit partnerships can help companies drive consumer engagement and increase brand loyalty over time.

How to identify the right cause

There’s no one way to choose the right nonprofit partner for your brand, but there are a few guiding questions companies can consider as a starting point:

Who are my customers?

Many of BCRF’s corporate and small business partners overwhelmingly serve and employ women. Worldwide, an estimated 2.3 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer—one every 14 seconds somewhere in the world. Breast cancer is by far the most common cancer diagnosed in American women. In fact, every two minutes, an American woman hears the words: “You have breast cancer.” Breast cancer potentially impacts one in eight of your female customers and employees at some point in their lifetimes—and many more people know someone who has been impacted.

Considering who your brand loyalists are and what they care about can help your brand narrow down opportunities for your company to make a philanthropic impact that really resonates—as the leading women’s retail apparel brands Ann Taylor and LOFT have done over their 19-year partnership with BCRF.

“Customers want to support and do business with organizations that do good, and BCRF has really resonated with them,” said Executive Chair and CEO Lizanne Kindler. “The fact that we support this cause deepens the relationship we have with our customers. They have a loyalty to our brand that goes beyond clothes.”

What cause will excite and unite my employees?

Employee fundraising and engagement programs are an especially powerful way to help coworkers connect—especially when they work remotely or across different areas. BCRF partner Cytiva fuels innovative BCRF-supported research in metastatic breast cancer. Its employees across the globe show their support for BCRF through fundraising and engagement programs, and the company works with sister brands across their Danaher parent company to promote employees’ efforts.

Do our founders, leaders, and employees have personal connections to a particular cause?

Founder-led companies may be drawn to causes based on founders’ experiences or values especially —or, at non-founder–led brands, those experiences and values shared by several company leaders or employees. Several BCRF partners became committed to breast cancer research after founders and CEOs underwent treatment for breast cancer or lost loved ones to the disease. Kendra Scott, for example, donates hundreds of thousands of dollars a year to research in honor of their namesake founder’s best friend, who tragically passed away from metastatic breast cancer.

How to find your perfect nonprofit partner

Because a philanthropic initiative reflects on your company or brand (and vice versa), due diligence is critical. Especially when you are exploring a product that gives back or a donation at checkout program, your consumers and employees need to trust that their hard-earned dollars will be spent wisely. Your ideal nonprofit partner should be highly rated, transparent, and fiscally responsible. They should also be prepared to help you effectively communicate the impact of your partnership and talk about a cause in a way that is respectful and thoughtful (for BCRF, that often means ensuring our partners do not pinkwash or trivialize breast cancer).

Charity Navigator and Charity Watchdog are good starting points to evaluate nonprofits and help guide initial partnership conversations.

There’s no question that partnering with a nonprofit boosts loyalty and reaches key consumers, among many more benefits. Most important: Corporate philanthropy is a powerful way for companies and brands to meaningfully make an impact and give back now and for the future.

]]>
https://www.bcrf.org/bcrf-corporate-philanthropy-nonprofit-partnerships/feed/ 0
19 Years, $58 Million, 1.1 Million Lab Hours: Behind Ann Taylor and LOFT’s Commitment to Research https://www.bcrf.org/ann-taylor-loft-bcrf-partnership/ https://www.bcrf.org/ann-taylor-loft-bcrf-partnership/#respond Wed, 26 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/blog/ann-taylor-loft-bcrf-partnership/ Executive Chair and CEO Lizanne Kindler on how the brands’ support for BCRF drives company purpose, employee pride, and customer loyalty

“We want to eradicate breast cancer—period,” says Lizanne Kindler, Executive Chair and CEO of Ann Taylor and LOFT about the brands’ longstanding partnership with BCRF. “That is our goal.”

Now in its 19th year, the leading women’s retail apparel brands’ corporate philanthropy program has raised more than $58 million for lifesaving, high-impact research—enough to power more than 1.1 million hours in BCRF-supported labs.

“The Ann and LOFT brands are built around our mission of empowering and supporting women,” Kindler said. “We recognize—as a business, as an organization, and as a group of associates—that every two minutes a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States. This disease touches so many, if not all, women, at some point in our lives, whether it’s ourselves, someone in our family, or a friend.”

The centerpiece of the brands’ program for BCRF is the Cares Card, the purchase of which unlocks a discount for customers and a generous donation to BCRF (90 percent of the $25 purchase price). Sales of the first Cares Card, in 2005, raised more than $220,000 for BCRF. Since then, the Cares Card has become the driving force behind the brands’ powerhouse fundraising, along with limited-edition product collections, events and store activations, and point-of-sale donations during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October and at other key moments in the year.

Customers, Kindler said, not only look forward to Ann Taylor and LOFT’s fundraising campaign for BCRF each year, but they deeply value the fact that the brands have long supported a cause that is so meaningful to them. It’s a mission, she says, that is “very real for the women we serve.”

“Customers want to support and do business with organizations that do good, and BCRF has really resonated with them,” Kindler said. “The fact that we support this cause deepens the relationship we have with our customers. They have a loyalty to our brand that goes beyond clothes.”

One key to that loyalty has been the fact that the brands not only fundraise to end breast cancer—but that they elevate BCRF’s research mission each year.

“We put breast cancer at the forefront, we talk about progress, we talk about the road ahead—so it’s not just about us asking customers to help us fundraise,” Kindler said. “We shine a spotlight on what it means to find a cure for breast cancer.”

Ann Taylor and LOFT’s partnership with BCRF has deepened another critical relationship as well: with the brands’ store and corporate associates. Ninety percent of Ann Taylor and LOFT’s associates are women—many of whom have personal connections to breast cancer. Kindler says that the brands’ support for BCRF has fostered a real sense of pride internally and in stores, and that associates look forward to highlighting BCRF’s mission.

“Every single person that works with us has been affected by breast cancer,” said one Ann Taylor store associate in California “Raising money for BCRF is not a task but a privilege. You get to be a superhero and help save a life.” 

Kindler said BCRF’s mission to end breast cancer through research could not be more important or relevant today. Over the last 19 years of the brands’ partnership with the Foundation, incredible progress has been made so that “being diagnosed with breast cancer today isn’t the same as being diagnosed 20 years ago.”

In retail and in business, Kindler noted, there’s a push for companies to make meaningful change. Ann Taylor and LOFT’s nearly two-decade, $58 million support for BCRF research “speaks for itself.”

“Some companies talk, and some companies do. We don’t just want to be the company that talks about purpose. We want to have purpose,” Kindler said. “This has strengthened us from a brand perspective. Our associates want to be part of this, and our customers want to support this partnership because it’s real and authentic. We look forward to many more years of supporting research.”

]]>
https://www.bcrf.org/ann-taylor-loft-bcrf-partnership/feed/ 0
The Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign Marks 30 Years of Commitment https://www.bcrf.org/estee-lauder-30-years-breast-cancer-campaign-bcrf/ https://www.bcrf.org/estee-lauder-30-years-breast-cancer-campaign-bcrf/#respond Mon, 03 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.bcrf.org/blog/estee-lauder-30-years-breast-cancer-campaign-bcrf/ ELC announces groundbreaking commitment to fuel disparities research

In 1992, Evelyn H. Lauder co-created the Pink Ribbon and launched The Estée Lauder Companies’ Breast Cancer Campaign (the Campaign), inspiring a global movement around its mission to help create a breast cancer–free world for all. One year later, she founded BCRF, a non-profit organization solely dedicated to advancing the world’s most promising research to eradicate breast cancer. Today, The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) is BCRF’s leading corporate partner. The Campaign remains steadfast in driving real progress to help find a cure for this disease.

Propelled by ELC’s support, BCRF is now the largest private funder of breast cancer research in the world. Through collective efforts of employees, consumers, and partners, the Campaign supports more than 60 organizations worldwide. Together, The Breast Cancer Campaign and The Estée Lauder Companies Charitable Foundation (ELCCF) have funded more than $108 million for lifesaving global research, education, and medical services—with more than $86 million funding medical research grants through BCRF.

We are also proud to share that ELCCF will donate $15 million to BCRF—the single largest corporate donation in BCRF history—to accelerate innovative research addressing breast cancer disparities. The gift ($3 million per year for five years) will further our shared goal of reducing breast cancer disparities and improving outcomes by addressing complex questions regarding how multiple biological and social factors coalesce to influence breast cancer risk and outcomes for Black women

This groundbreaking support comes as The Campaign honors the 30th anniversary of its continued commitment to help end breast cancer for all. Over that time, breast cancer awareness and education in the U.S. and other countries have drastically risen—empowering women to take control of their health. Importantly, U.S. breast cancer mortality has declined by 42 percent over the last 30 years.

But this progress has not been experienced equally across all populations, including right here in the U.S. At every age, Black women are more likely to die from breast cancer than any other race or ethnic group, and mortality remains 41 percent higher than in white women. The Campaign and BCRF have been working toward a more equitable future for breast cancer outcomes for years, and ELCCF’s new commitment will undoubtedly accelerate our shared vision.

In recognition of ELC’s positive social impact and unwavering dedication to a world without breast cancer, we’re honored to present The Company with BCRF’s Sandra Taub Humanitarian Award at our Annual Symposium and Awards Luncheon in New York City on October 27.

ELC’s commitment to breast cancer research, spanning three decades, has been transformative. Together, fueling research across the entire spectrum of the disease—from tumor biology, lifestyle and genetics, survivorship, treatment, and metastasis—we have made an indelible mark in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of breast cancer.

]]>
https://www.bcrf.org/estee-lauder-30-years-breast-cancer-campaign-bcrf/feed/ 0