The Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer has raised more than $43 million for research since its creation in 1998. The nonprofit reached another milestone this past weekend when its annual Breast Cancer Classic in Fort Wayne, Indiana, brought in over $1 million through golf, pickleball, and donations.
A Mission Born from Loss
The foundation was started by Vera Bradley co-founders Barbara Bradley Baekgaard and Patricia Miller after their friend and sales representative Mary Sloan died from breast cancer. Since then, the company has pledged a portion of profits and hosted fundraisers to help find a cure.
Support and Gratitude
Stephanie Scheele, the foundation’s executive director, praised donors for their continued support.
“Gratitude and appreciation are the first two words that come to mind. We’re so grateful for all of our amazing sponsors and friends at the foundation that have been so generous and willing to give again to breast cancer research.”(Stephanie Scheele)
Ongoing Pledge and Investments
The organization’s initial goal is to donate $50 million, but Stephanie Scheele said the work will not stop there.
“We won’t stop — even when we get to 50 — until we find a cure,” (Stephanie Scheele).
In 2018, the foundation launched the Vera Bradley Foundation Center for Breast Cancer Research at the Indiana University School of Medicine. In 2022, it added another $12.5 million to support the school’s studies.
Advancing Research
According to a press release,
“Support from the Vera Bradley Foundation has aided the IU School of Medicine in amassing talent, technology, and resources to become a national leader in targeted breast cancer therapies, specifically for triple negative breast cancer.”
Since 2004, IU researchers have published over 1,300 studies in peer-reviewed journals, with discoveries in genetics, vaccines, immunotherapies, testing, and new treatments.
A Recognized Effort
Stephanie Scheele said last year,
“The Foundation has become a globally recognized not-for-profit organization, funding some of the most gifted and accomplished breast cancer researchers in the world.
We have not wavered from our mission to passionately pursue a cure, and our partnership with the IU Cancer Center has resulted in amazing discoveries and improved outcomes for those affected by this disease.”
A Weekend of Giving
The Breast Cancer Classic mixes fun competition with fundraising. Along with pickleball and golf, the event includes auctions, cocktails, and research updates.
“Through this hope-filled weekend guests are investing in a team of the best, the brightest, and the most passionate researchers in the world,”
the foundation shared on its website.
Looking Ahead
Following the Classic’s success, the next event will be Turn the Town Pink in October. Residents can buy pink ribbons to hang in their neighborhoods during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
“One in 8 women get breast cancer, and that affects them throughout the year — not just in the month of October. It takes a village to do this, and we invite everyone to be a part of that village.”(Stephanie Scheele)
News in Brief: Vera Bradley Foundation Breast Cancer Fundraising
The Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer has raised more than $43 million since 1998, with $1 million added this weekend at its annual Breast Cancer Classic in Fort Wayne. The event featured golf, pickleball, and fundraising. Proceeds support research at Indiana University School of Medicine.
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