Shades of Pink going all out for Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Shades of Pink Foundation (SOPF) is diving headfirst into Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, launching a series of impactful fundraising initiatives and community partnerships to support its mission of reducing financial stress for those undergoing breast cancer treatment in southeast Michigan by providing prompt funding for daily living expenses.

In October 2023, SOPF raised $70,000. In October 2024, the organization raised $90,000. This year, SOPF aims to surpass $100,000.

The effort kicks off with the fourth annual “Comedy for a Cause” featuring comedian Tara Brown at the Community House in Birmingham on Oct. 7.

Those interested in attending can register by clicking here.

‘Bringing community together’

“What makes SOPF so special is how local we are,” said Jenna Wright Greenman, board president of SOPF. “We’re bringing the community together to support each other, especially in the month of October.

“When you host one of our events, donate to our cause or partner with us, you’re giving back to a neighbor in southeast Michigan going through the journey of a breast cancer diagnosis and the following treatment. We’re so grateful for all the community support.”

Last year, Genthe Automotive was SOPF’s biggest supporter during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This year, they’re partnering again, going pink and donating $100 from every car sold in the month of October to local breast cancer patients through SOPF.

Also in support, Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) is partnering with SOPF for the “Transit in Pink” campaign. SMART encourages the public to “Ride in Pink” on Oct. 1 to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

SMART support

Then, throughout the month, SMART employees across the region will participate through station-wide donations and community engagement.

“Breast cancer touches the lives of SMART riders, families and team members,” said Tiffany Gunter, chief operating officer of SMART. “Through ‘Transit in Pink,’ SMART proudly supports those facing the journey by reminding our community that we’re here to help, both on and off the road.”

Hosting a special event or fundraiser to benefit SOPF is a great way to support the foundation this October.

SOPF provides a logo for event flyers, brochures and social media promotion when appropriate. From Pink-Out athletic events and awareness walks to T-shirt sales and restaurant “Dine & Donate” gatherings, there are many ways to get involved.

How to help

Those interested in hosting a fundraising event can reach out to executiveadministrator@shadesofpinkfoundation.org.

For example, J. McLaughlin will host its fifth consecutive “Think Pink & Shop” on Oct. 8 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., with 10% of sales from its Grosse Pointe and Somerset Collection stores benefiting the inspiring non-profit.

The Edge Fitness Clubs will donate proceeds from its “Pink Week” at six locations from Oct. 6 through Oct. 12; and the Joe Louis Greenway will host “Pink’o’ween” on Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Warren Trailhead.

SOPF is also relaunching its “Think Pink T-shirt” campaign, with a portion of every sale supporting breast cancer patients in southeast Michigan.

Orders can be placed by clicking here.

And, to culminate its 20th anniversary celebration, SOPF is hosting a fashion show fundraiser Nov. 8 at the Heathers Club of Bloomfield, with apparel from Bravo intimates, Clothed boutique,
skinnytees and The Peacock Room.
More details about fundraising events and ways to give back during October can be found here.
at shadesofpinkfoundation.org/2025-breast-cancer-awareness-month.