Breast cancer knows no boundaries, affecting women from all walks of life. However, the impact and experiences of breast cancer can be vastly different for Women of Color. In recognition of this, “For the Breast of Us” (FTBOU) was founded with a mission to elevate the voice of women of color and to provide support, advocacy, and education specifically tailored to Women of Color impacted by breast cancer.
Our Mission: Beyond Awareness
FTBOU’s mission is simple yet profound: We understand that Women of Color often face unique challenges and disparities in healthcare, and our organization is committed to addressing these issues head-on. We are a pillar of Advocacy, fighting for equitable access to quality healthcare and representation in clinical trials for women of color. We foster a strong sense of Community, connecting you with others who understand your unique challenges and experiences. Finally, we provide Education resources on breast cancer, treatment options, and survivorship resources.
Advocacy:
Advocacy is at the core of FTBOU’s mission. We believe in raising our voices to challenge systemic inequalities in breast cancer treatment, research, and healthcare access. In 2024 and beyond, we aim to:
Push for Policy Changes:
Collaborate with other organizations to advocate for policies that reduce healthcare disparities and improve breast cancer outcomes for Women of Color.
Moving from Awareness to Action:
Increase awareness and demand action about the specific challenges faced by Women of Color in the breast cancer community through educational campaigns, social media, and partnerships.
Amplify Voices:
Provide a platform for Women of Color to share their stories, concerns, and experiences, amplifying their voices and advocating for change.
Community:
Community is the heart of For the Breast of Us. It is what has made For the Breast of Us what we are today. We believe in the power of support networks and collaboration, and in 2024 and beyond, we vow to:
Expand Our Community:
Welcome and embrace Women of Color from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that no one faces breast cancer alone.
Empowerment and Connection:
Solidify our support programming like Baddies Talk Back, Baddie 2 Baddie Podcast, webinars, and events to make it easier for Women of Color to connect, share, and heal either in-person or virtually. Our goal has always been and will continue to be that we meet women where they are in their journey.
Baddie Mentorship and Support:
From our Baddie Ambassadors and Baddie Volunteers to our partnership with Artistry by Zuri for The Baddie Beauty Collective, FTBOU will establish peer mentorship programs where survivors can provide guidance and emotional support to those newly diagnosed.
Education:
Education is empowerment. FTBOU is dedicated to providing reliable information and resources to Women of Color. In 2024 and beyond, we will:
Educational Content:
Continue producing informative content, including our podcast Baddie 2 Baddie, blog posts, and webinars, that address the specific concerns and questions of Women of Color impacted by breast cancer.
Resource Guides: Create comprehensive resource guides on breast cancer prevention, treatment, and support tailored to the unique needs of Women of Color.
Expanding Our Reach in 2024 & Beyond:
We are committed to reaching even more women of color in 2024 and beyond. To fulfill our mission and expand our reach, collaboration is KEY. For the Breast of Us seeks to collaborate with like-minded organizations, medical professionals, and advocates. Here’s how we plan to achieve this:
- Collaborations:Â We are actively seeking partnerships with other organizations that share our mission. This includes healthcare providers, community centers, and other breast cancer advocacy groups. Together, we can amplify our voices and reach a wider audience.
- Community Outreach:Â We plan to expand our outreach programs to reach women of color with the resources and connections they need and want.
- Digital Expansion:Â The digital world is a powerful tool for connection. We are committed to strengthening our online presence through social media engagement, informative blog posts, and webinars led by medical professionals and breast cancer survivors, thrivers and previvors.
How You Can Help:
FTBOU’s mission is fueled by the collective strength of our community. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Share Our Story:Â Spread the word about For the Breast of Us! Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about our organization and the resources we offer. We are always accepting new stories from Women of Color impacted by breast cancer and their caregivers. Help us amplify your voice and concerns by uploading your story here.
- Volunteer Your Time:Â If you have time and skills to share, consider volunteering with FTBOU. We have a variety of opportunities available from being a guest on our podcast, attending a conference with us or offering your time at one of our in-person events. To inquire about volunteer opportunities, send an email to hello@breastofus.com
- Donate:Â Every contribution helps us continue providing vital support services to women of color impacted by breast cancer. We have two campaigns running currently: “Making spACE through Advocacy, Community and Education” where your donation helps us provide no cost in-person educational meet-ups and travel to conferences for Women of Color impacted by breast cancer and our “In Purpose, On Purpose” Scholarship that aims to alleviate the financial burdens cancer imposes on survivors, thrivers, and previvors.
At For the Breast of Us, our mission is rooted in the belief that every woman of color navigating breast cancer deserves a supportive community and access to reliable information. We understand that empowerment stems from advocacy, community engagement, and continuous education—cornerstones of our approach to changing lives.
As we look ahead to 2024, For the Breast of Us is excited to deepen our commitment to these principles. By expanding our outreach and enhancing our programs, we aim to meet every woman right where she is in her journey. Together, we are building a future where Women of Color facing breast cancer feel empowered, supported, and understood. Join us as we continue to advocate, connect, and educate, transforming the landscape of breast cancer support for Women of Color.
