Harvesting Hope: September Reflections and Fall Inspirations
As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in and the leaves start to change, we at B the Light are embracing this busy and exciting season of transition. Fall brings with it not only the beauty of nature's transformation but also the energy of gearing up for our most anticipated event of the year—the Illuminate Hope Gala.
With the community's continued support, we've been hard at work preparing an evening that will shine a light on the strength of breast cancer survivors and the vital programs that help them thrive. From our Cooking Beyond Cancer workshops to our Survival Fitness program, this year's Gala will showcase the impact we've made together and how, with your help, we can continue to illuminate hope.
Nominations for our 2025 HOPE Getaway are open through October 4th.
Programs and Events
Survival Fitness
Tomorrow we wrap up our final Survival Fitness program of the year in partnership with New Ulm Fitness, and what a fantastic season it has been! Our survivors worked hard, strengthening their bodies and spirits with each session. But it wasn’t all about the sweat and effort—they spiced things up with fun fitness games that added an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie. It’s been inspiring to see our participants challenge themselves, all while sharing laughs and creating new memories together. We couldn’t be prouder of their progress and resilience!
Cooking Beyond Cancer
Our latest Cooking Beyond Cancer class at Cultivate Mankato was a heartwarming success! As the weather turns cooler, we focused on preparing comforting, wholesome meals perfect for the fall season and the crockpot. Participants learned how to make hearty dishes like Beef Stew, Honey Garlic Chicken, and Tuscan Chicken—delicious meals that are not only nutritious but also easy to prepare. It was a wonderful session, filled with tips on clean eating and building healthy habits, while embracing the flavors of the season. We can’t wait to see these meals enjoyed by our survivors and their families!
We are thrilled to have had 29 Survivors participate in our programs in January. Our total programming costs for January 2024: $3,829. Thank you for helping to make this possible for each of these vibrant women!
Thank you!
Brakes for Breasts at Austin’s Auto
I spy a local celebrity! Survivor, Dinah, helped to create our commercial with Matt from Austin’s Auto.
Austin's Auto is running its Brakes for Breasts campaign this October and November to help support local breast cancer survivors. Stop by for a free brake inspection, and if your vehicle needs new brake pads and rotors, Austin's Auto will donate the brake pads and contribute 10% of labor costs to B the Light! Drive safely and make a difference in the fight against breast cancer.
Bling-A-Bra is Back! Hosted by Julee's Jewelry
Get ready for a fun, creative, and meaningful event! Julee’s Jewelry is excited to host Bling-A-Bra to raise money for B The Light, a local nonprofit supporting individuals battling breast cancer.
How to Participate:
Bling Your Bra for $15: Decorate a bra by gluing, sewing, drawing, or painting – let your creativity shine! (No offensive or sexual designs, please.)
Drop Off Your Bra: Bring your decorated bra to either Julee’s Jewelry location by October 2nd.
Vote for Your Favorite: All entries will be displayed at the St. Peter location during Ladies Night Out on October 3rd. Photos of the bras will also be posted online, and voting will be open throughout October.
Voting Details:
Vote in Store or Online: For just $1 per vote, you can support your favorite designs. Voting is free at Julee’s Jewelry, and all proceeds go directly to B The Light.
Grand Prize: The bra with the most votes will win a grand prize worth over $1,000 in jewelry and other goodies!
Julee wanted to bring this event back in memory of two amazing friends, Mary Fisher and Cheryl Olson, who both passed away from breast cancer. Let’s come together to honor their memory and make a difference for those still fighting.
Decorate, vote, and support a great cause!
Save the Date
Grab your tickets for the Fall Fashion After Hours event at Mankato SCHEELS!
Date: Sunday, November 3rd
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Tickets: $10
Receive $10 SCHEELS gift card upon arrival at the event.
Register to win GREAT prizes!
Great deals during the event only!
Purchase your tickets here: scheels.com/rhfallfashion
Limited to the first 250 people
This event supports local nonprofit B the Light*
Come on out for a great evening with friends, exclusive prizes, fun, food, and fashion!
We hope to see you there
Thank you so much for your continued support!
Amber Melby (Survivor, Founder and President) & Laura Doyen (Executive Director)