As 2020 comes to a close, many of us are reflecting on this challenging year and remembering what we’re most grateful for. Holiday celebrations will undoubtably feel different this year, but there are still countless ways to show your loved ones how much you care—whether they’re near or far.
Now more than ever, we appreciate the importance of research. This holiday season, the BCRF team is especially grateful for our investigators, who have dedicated their work to improving the lives of those impacted by breast cancer, and we’re grateful for all our incredible supporters, whose generosity helps make this research possible.
If you’re able, we hope you will consider BCRF in your holiday plans this year—whether through a donation or fundraiser. Here, we highlight some opportunities to make an impact.
Fund research directly. Donations, no matter the amount, propel breakthroughs. A $25 donation funds a half hour of research in a BCRF-supported lab. To learn more about the many ways you can give, click here. In 2020, there are also a few notable new tax incentives for donors as part of the CARES Act. Most notably, people who don’t itemize may take a new, above-the-line deduction of up to $300 for gifts to qualifying organizations. And this year, individuals who itemize can also deduct donations up to 100 percent of their adjusted gross income (up from a previous 60 percent cap). Learn more here.
RELATED: Other Ways to Give to BCRF
Host a virtual celebration. Most of us have attended a Zoom party at some point in the last several months. Why not turn a virtual get-together into a chance to fund research? Pick a date, invite your guests, and encourage them to get festive for a cause.
Make a tribute gift. Every cause has been impacted in some way this year. Show your loved ones you’re thinking about them by making a donation in their honor to a cause they’re passionate about.
Harness office connections. With many people still working remotely, relationships with colleagues may be harder to foster. Use the holidays to help get to know one another. Host a virtual trivia event, do a recipe swap, or organize a family-friendly movie stream with a suggested donation to engage with your coworkers and support research along the way.
Skip gifts. Mom asking what’s on your wish list? If you’re stumped, ask her to make a donation in lieu of a physical gift. Is your family or friend group fretting over how to organize a virtual gift exchange? Skip the stress of mailing packages and consider pooling the money you would have spent for a group donation.
Make a fitness goal. Many New Year’s resolutions are focused on healthy habits. In the lead-up to 2021, consider participating in a virtual exercise class, fitness challenge, or race to help fund research. Recruit a friend to join you and hold each other accountable.
RELATED: Team BCRF Runner Completes Her Own Race After Canceled Half Marathon
Tap into your creativity. Are you passionate about a holiday activity or hobby? You can turn it into a fundraiser.
There are countless ways to support breast cancer research, and we’re here to help you get started. Set up an online fundraising page on our website to launch your event by clicking here. Be the first to donate to show your commitment to breast cancer research, and then share your link with friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your holiday giving or fundraising plans, please email fundraising@bcrf.org.
Please remember BCRF in your will planning. Learn More
