Making strides Against Breast Cancer is an American Cancer Society-founded event that unites communities all across the nation to fight against this deadly disease. This event is a walk that empowers and provides support female survivors and family members. At this walk, however, attendees do more than just walk—the purpose is to raise money to help the organization fund groundbreaking breast cancer research and provide patient services like free rides to chemo, free places to stay near treatment, and a live 24/7 cancer helpline. This year, Sarasota’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk took place Oct. 19 at Nathan Benderson Park. Members of the school community, including the Papillon Club, were able to make a difference through their volunteer work at the event. The club began their involvement with two weeks of sign making and volunteer signups. Girls came together in their mentor kaleidoscope groups to make signs that would help encourage and cheer on walkers. Once at the event, Papillon’s volunteer jobs included checking walkers in, providing them with necessary information and encouraging all participants along the sidelines and at the finish line. Members agree that witnessing cancer patients, survivors, and those impacted by this disease unite was incredibly inspiring. Papillon Club’s president Alexis Collier explained that this event is “always so rewarding, and such a great volunteer opportunity.” “It is amazing to see everyone from the walkers, to vendors, to our own volunteers coming together for a good cause,” she said. Fundraising events such as these are great ways for students to get involved within the Sarasota community. Not only are students able to gain experience helping others through volunteer work, but they also feel inspired hearing survivor’s stories while gaining community service hours in a fun way.