Cupcakes for a Cause Week


Because I'll cheer on a good cause (and even more so if cupcakes are involved - mmm!), I wanted to let you all know about Cupcakes for a Cause Week, which runs until September 26.

What is it?

Cupcakes for a Cause was created in 2004 by CancerCare with 12 New York City bakeries as a fun and lighthearted way to raise funds for the CancerCare for Kids program, a support group for children affected by cancer - either their own or a loved one's diagnosis - and their families.

How do they help?

The funds raised from Cupcakes Week go towards their free, professional support services for children, teens, young adults and their families to provide practical support, financial assistance and age-appropriate counseling that will help them better understand cancer and be less afraid. CancerCare is there to answer a child's concerns while helping families navigate any issues that might arise once a diagnosis is made.

So what can I do?

You can participate by buying a specially decorated cupcake at any of the 700 participating bakeries nationwide. If you'd rather bake your own batch, then how about hosting a bake sale in your community with proceeds going to the cause? Get started by downloading this Bake Sale Toolkit complete with flyers, signs and tips on how to plan and promote your sale. And if you'd rather keep it strictly digital, then send someone a free e-Cupcake. They don't taste nearly as good as the real thing, but presenting sponsor Göt2b will donate $1 for each one sent.

Does CancerCare hold other events?

Although Cupcakes for a Cause is the group's main national fundraiser, they also organize other events each year. So if you'd like to do your part by walking a couple miles, dressing up in a cute cocktail dress or playing with Legos and Santa, check out their events page for upcoming opportunities.

Where should I go for support?

If you want to take advantage of CancerCare's free services, just give them a call through their Hope Line - 1-800-813-HOPE (4673) - or visit them online at www.cancercare.org.