Put a face on it

By KATHLEEN EDGECOMB

What if you pledged to raise money for breast cancer research and no one knew about it? Wouldn’t it be nice if, when you signed up for a charity event, your friends on social media heard about your commitment and came forward with emotional support, and even a donation?

This year, the Terri Brodeur Breast Cancer Foundation is helping to boost the profiles of those who have signed up to walk with a social media campaign. In the new “2020 Spotlight on Walkers,” participants can write in their own words why they are supporting the foundation in this year’s “Virtual Miles to Cure Breast Cancer” and post a picture of themselves. The information will be shared on social media platforms.

This year’s walk, which is the 15th annual event, is being held virtually because of COVID-19.

“We’re trying to get the faces out there. Get the names out there,” said Gabby Tudisca, secretary of the foundation’s board of directors. “We’re hoping more people will find the walkers and support them”

Tudisca, who works at the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce, came up with the idea based on a similar program at the chamber, which everyday highlights a chamber member on social media.

“It’s a good way to grab some attention,” she said. “These are people who maybe have walked all 15 years, or this is their first year. It’s a chance for everyone to showcase themselves.”

Registration is open through the end of October of the virtual walk. Participants, who can choose how they will complete their individual fundraiser, have until the end of the year to raise the suggested minimum donation of $150.

If you are a 2020 Walk for Virtual Miles for Breast Cancer participant, and interested in participating in the spotlight on walkers’ series, you can complete the form at this link: https://conta.cc/31IiHQf

See who’s in the spotlight at 2020 Walker Spotlight