JACKSONVILLE, AL — As October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the sisters of Zeta Tau Alpha at Jacksonville State University are once again preparing to “paint Jacksonville pink” in support of breast cancer awareness and research.
Each year, the sorority’s “Paint the Town Pink” campaign transforms Pelham Road/State Highway 21 with hundreds of pink bows—each one symbolizing a donation made to the Zeta Tau Alpha Foundation. The initiative honors survivors, supports those currently battling the disease, and remembers lives lost to breast cancer.
Over the years, the Jax State chapter has raised an impressive $879,000 for philanthropy, earning national recognition for its dedication. This year, members have set their sights on a $30,000 fundraising goal.
“Every bow tells a story,” said Stella Phillips, ZTA fundraising chair and education major at JSU. “Whether it’s to honor a survivor, recognize someone currently battling cancer, or remember someone we’ve lost, this campaign brings our campus and community together in a meaningful way.”
The highlight of the month will be the Think Pink Football Game at AmFirst Stadium on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at 6 p.m. Before kickoff, breast cancer survivors will be recognized on the field and celebrated by the crowd, waving pink shakers provided by sponsors. Fans are encouraged to wear pink, and ZTA members will distribute pink lapel ribbons to attendees.
Sponsorship opportunities include $10 pink bows, $60 pink shakers (in sets of 20), or general donations of any amount—all of which are 100% tax-deductible. Donations can be made through the chapter’s fundraising page at zta.crowdchange.co/50559.
“One in eight women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime,” said Molly Graben, ZTA president and nursing major. “Until that number is zero, my sisters and I will continue to fight for a cure so that no one loses a loved one to this illness.”
