There are so many ways to wear it pink at work, and every year we’re amazed by the variety of workplaces taking part and what they do for wear it pink. Susan and Ailsa share the fantastic ways their workplaces got involved.
Susan’s wear it pink event
My world was turned upside down in 2017 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Thankfully the cancer was caught early, and I made a full recovery. I received so much love and support during my own treatment and I knew instantly I wanted to give something back and help others going through their cancer journeys.
I’m a fitness instructor, so I decided to organise a 2-hour sponsored indoor cycle event at the health club where I teach. I set up a JustGiving page and gym members made a donation for a bike. We all dressed up in pink, sang, laughed, sweated and ate Percy Pigs.
I’ve been organising these events since 2018 and they’re always extremely popular. I’m always truly grateful and humbled by everyone’s love and support.
It’s so easy to sign up for wear it pink, and Breast Cancer Now provide you with all the information and tools you need. I use the balloons, sponsorship form and collection box from the fundraising pack.
Susan’s top tips for a successful event;
- Advertise 2-3 weeks in advance of your event if you can, to give people as much notice as possible.
- Use all the social media platforms you can to spread the word.
- Be a pain! Keep reminding people why you’re doing this and how they can help and make a difference.
- Keep people updated after the event too and let them know how much they have collectively raised.
Alisa’s wear it pink event
My mum died because of breast cancer, and most people I know have either lost or have someone close who is living with this disease. So, when I heard about wear it pink, I decided to try to raise a little money for this cause.
My manager agreed that we could hold the event at the shop we work in. My colleagues were all on board, and we worked hard to make the day a success!
I love to crochet and thought it would be fun to incorporate this into the event, by selling handmade ribbon twists and other pink items such as scarves. The highlight of the day was a competition where I sat and crocheted a blanket, and we asked customers to make a donation and take a guess at how big the blanket would be by the end of the day!
My manager very kindly donated items from the store for a hamper to award to the winner, and colleagues helped to set everything up before customers arrived. People were so generous with their donations. I'm very proud of what we achieved that day. Our certificate is still displayed on our office door.
Alisa’s top tips for a successful event;
- Start your planning and preparation early and get as many people involved as possible.
- Use the fundraising pack materials and useful ideas from the emails you are sent, once you sign up.
- Make sure you check the legalities of holding a raffle or tombola and ensure that if you need to take anyone's contact details, you explain exactly how they'll be used, keep them secure, and then destroy them once they are no longer needed.
