Staff Report
Silvana Kelly found herself surrounded by pink treats when she arrived recently at the Chumash Casino Resort to accept a donation on behalf of the Breast Cancer Resource Center of Santa Barbara.
The cakes, cookies, pies and other pink-colored pastries were a sample of the treats the resort’s food outlets sold during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Breast Cancer Resource Center.
It was the second year for the Chumash Casino Resort’s “Project Pink,” and it raised $5,086.
Kelly, executive eirector of the Breast Cancer Resource Center, noted that donations and informing others about the BCRC provide a significant boost to the independent organization.
“This creates a partnership with the Chumash,” Kelly said. “And when they help spread the word that the Breast Cancer Resource Center is available to women who need support, the Chumash become an extension of that support service.
“I believe when you share the information about us, you become a part of our circle of healing hands. We don’t exist without support and without people knowing that we’re here to support them.”
Since 1997, the Breast Cancer Resource Center has acted as a clearinghouse of information, personal support through peer counseling and referral service for women diagnosed with breast cancer or dealing with benign breast health issues.
The BCRC’s services include one-on-one peer counseling, support groups, a buddy mentor program, a lending library and a suite of services that includes meditation, reflexology, Reiki, and art therapy, among others. Outreach educational programs about breast health and early detection screening are also a core part of the center’s offerings.
“We’re proud of the talent and enthusiasm our team brought to the table while executing this year’s ‘Project Pink’ campaign,” said Tribal Chairman Kenneth Kahn of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. “This gave our team members an opportunity to engage guests about the importance of breast cancer awareness while raising funds for a great resource in our community.”
For more information on the Breast Cancer Resource Center, visit www.bcrc.org
