October is a busy month full of causes to support. Foundations will pick a month that represents their cause and October happens to host many of these causes.

Cancer

Breast cancer is one. The Susan G. Komen Foundation hosts the “Walk for a Cure” in order to raise money to support research on breast cancer. The walk normally takes place in the second week of October. Not to worry, although the walk has passed contributions can still be made. Purchase Yoplait products with a pink lid and enter the code into their website. Proceeds from each purchase will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Cancer is a disease that can attack any part of the body and many foundations focus on fighting cancer in specific parts. The American Lung Association spends the month of October spreading awareness for lung cancer and ways to prevent it. One huge focus for the foundation is the harm of smoking. Contributions can be made a donation or a variety of runs, walks and biking events.

Domestic violence

Domestic violence occurs for 25% of people throughout their lives. It can happen to anyone, no matter their race or gender. October is the time to spread awareness for domestic violence. Wear purple to spread awareness and post a picture with the hashtag ‘PurpleThursday’ to show support.

SIDS

Sudden-infant-death syndrome is a scary occurrence, where a child under the age of one can pass away suddenly. It is often unexplained and leaves parents devastated. Funds are needed to help support continued research and also to inform parents of ways to prevent SIDS.

The CJ Foundation for SIDS supports this cause by hosting a marathon in New York. Unless students are up for the long drive, donate online at cjsids.org.

Down Syndrome

The goal for promoting down syndrome is to show all the capabilities and accomplishments of those with down syndrome. As it is phrased, the month “is not about celebrating disabilities, it’s about celebrating abilities”. Buddy Walks are held in the early parts of October thoughout the State of Iowa. Bring friends and and get ready to stretch those legs on a 5K walk for a good cause. Also search for which companies have paired with the National Down Syndrome Society and support those businesses. A part of the funds will go to the foundation.

Drug-Free Youth

Take the last week of October to celebrate Red Ribbon Week and support a drug-free youth. This foundation puts a focus on taking drugs out of the lives of youth and showing the destruction drugs can do. Take the Red Ribbon Pledge on their website and receive weekly emails on the positive influence being made in students lives.  

Whether students want to support one cause or all of them, October will not disappoint!