A reflection on the profound contributions of Black women volunteers, highlighting their journey from service to sisterhood and their pivotal role in dismantling breast cancer disparities.
By Severina Ware, Director of Volunteer Services, National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF)
In my four years as the Director of Volunteer Services at the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF), I have been privileged to witness the transformative power of community in action, embodying our mission of "Helping Women Now." This unique vantage point has allowed me to see firsthand how individuals from all walks of life unite to support our vital programs and community outreach. As we observe Black History Month, my reflections naturally turn to the incredible Black women who dedicate their time and energy to advancing our cause. What began as a commitment to volunteerism has, for many, blossomed into something far more profound: a deep and abiding sisterhood.
This sisterhood is not merely an abstract concept; it is a tangible force built on shared experiences, mutual support, and a collective drive to make a difference. It is a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of Black women, who often turn personal adversity into a source of empowerment for others.
The Genesis of Sisterhood: More Than Just Volunteering
The journey for many of these remarkable women begins with a desire to contribute. They arrive at NBCF headquarters, or participate in our virtual events, with a shared purpose: to help those affected by breast cancer. Yet, as they engage in activities like our Community HOPE Kit Packing Parties, or participate in broader community outreach initiatives, something remarkable happens. Bonds begin to form organically, woven through shared laughter, the release of heartfelt tears, and the creation of sacred spaces where vulnerability is met with unwavering support.
It is in these moments of collective action that the true essence of sisterhood emerges. These women often carry personal connections to breast cancer – their own diagnoses, or those of their mothers, sisters, friends, or mentors. Instead of succumbing to the pain or uncertainty that these experiences can bring, they channel it into a powerful force for good. They transform their hurt into action, their anxieties into hope for others. This act of turning personal struggle into collective empowerment is a defining characteristic of the sisterhood that thrives within NBCF.
One such inspiring individual is Karen, a long-time NBCF volunteer, a dedicated registered nurse, and a breast cancer survivor herself. Karen’s journey exemplifies the profound impact of community and connection, particularly within the Black community.
“NBCF’s commitment to empowering women through education, early detection, and community support aligns directly with the values I hold as a nurse, a survivor, and a woman of faith,” Karen shared. “When I connected with NBCF, I found more than resources – I found sisterhood, reassurance, and purpose. Being part of this mission allows me to turn my experience into service and to stand alongside other women, encouraging them to prioritize their health and use their voices. When our voices are heard and respected, care improves – and outcomes change.”
Karen’s words underscore a critical truth: volunteerism, when rooted in shared purpose and lived experience, can transcend mere obligation and evolve into a deeply personal and impactful form of connection. The shared understanding of the challenges faced by women, particularly within communities that have historically experienced disparities in healthcare access and outcomes, creates a unique and powerful bond.
Addressing the Disparities: Action Fueled by Purpose
The sisterhood cultivated at NBCF is not just about emotional support; it is a driving force for tangible action aimed at tackling the persistent and alarming breast cancer disparities faced by Black women. Douglas Feil, NBCF Chief Program Officer, consistently emphasizes the urgency of this mission, stating, "For decades, Black women have been dying of breast cancer at a higher rate than White women." This stark reality underscores the critical need for our work and the invaluable contributions of our volunteers.
The gravity of these disparities is deeply felt by many within our volunteer community. Coretta, a dedicated NBCF volunteer, shared her perspective on how these racial inequities impact her and her community:
“As an African American woman, NBCF’s mission holds particular significance to me. Our community, unfortunately, experiences a disproportionately high rate of breast cancer diagnoses at late stages. This is often coupled with limited visibility or awareness about the critical need for proactive health measures. There’s a pervasive tendency within our community to prioritize the needs of our families above our own health, often ignoring warning signs or delaying screenings until it might be too late.”
Coretta’s insights highlight a complex interplay of cultural norms, systemic barriers, and historical mistrust that contribute to these disparities. The tendency to place family needs above personal health is a deeply ingrained aspect of many cultures, but it can have devastating consequences when it comes to critical health screenings like mammograms.
It is in response to these challenges that the sisterhood at NBCF truly shines. Coretta and her fellow volunteers are not just passively supporting the mission; they are actively championing early detection and screening initiatives within Black communities that have historically faced significant barriers to access, trust, and equitable care. They are serving as educators, advocates, and bridge-builders, meeting women where they are with compassion, cultural understanding, and empathy.
They celebrate milestones, both personal and programmatic, and consistently pour into each other, fostering an environment of mutual encouragement. Crucially, they push one another to be visible in spaces where representation truly matters, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Black women are heard and prioritized in the fight against breast cancer. This proactive approach to advocacy is a direct manifestation of their commitment to turning action into purpose.
A Movement of Love, Resilience, and Collective Strength
In a world that often asks Black women to navigate challenges in isolation, the sisterhood at NBCF offers a powerful counter-narrative. Here, strength is found not in solitude, but in togetherness. These women are living proof that community is not just built, but nurtured, through shared care and unwavering support.
Diane, another long-time NBCF volunteer and a breast cancer survivor herself, eloquently articulates how her personal experience of navigating breast cancer in isolation has shaped her current commitment to service:
“When I was diagnosed in 2015, I became overwhelmed with everything I learned in the months following my diagnosis. I had no one to talk to or cry with, no friends who had experienced it. Support is so very important. I am very proud to help NBCF carry out its mission. Whenever I pack tea bags, count inventory, proofread encouragement cards, or pack HOPE Kits, I know I am helping a woman in the way I needed help all those years ago.”
Diane’s powerful testimony speaks volumes about the ripple effect of support. Her personal journey, marked by isolation, has fueled a profound desire to ensure that no other woman feels that same loneliness. Through her volunteer work, she is not just performing tasks; she is offering the very support and understanding she once desperately needed. This dedication, multiplied across countless volunteers, creates a powerful network of care that extends far beyond the walls of our organization.
The impact of this sisterhood is immeasurable. It reaches far beyond the immediate tasks of packing kits or organizing events. It touches the lives of countless women who are struggling with a breast cancer diagnosis, offering them a sense of hope, solidarity, and the reassurance that they are not alone. They are seen, they are supported, and they are held.
Implications for the Future of Breast Cancer Advocacy
The sisterhood that has blossomed at NBCF is more than a fleeting moment; it represents a sustained and growing movement of love, resilience, and collective strength. The dedication and passion of these Black women volunteers are instrumental in our ongoing efforts to address breast cancer disparities and ensure equitable access to care for all women.
Their work has significant implications for the future of breast cancer advocacy:
- Elevating Representation: By actively participating and leading in volunteer efforts, these women are increasing visibility and representation within the breast cancer community. This is crucial for building trust and encouraging engagement in communities that have historically faced barriers.
- Cultivating Culturally Competent Support: Their lived experiences and cultural understanding allow them to connect with women on a deeper level, providing support that is both effective and culturally sensitive. This is vital for overcoming communication barriers and addressing specific community needs.
- Driving Policy and Programmatic Change: The collective voice and advocacy of these volunteers can influence policy decisions and inform the development of more targeted and effective breast cancer programs. Their firsthand insights are invaluable in shaping strategies that truly meet the needs of underserved populations.
- Inspiring Future Generations: The visible commitment and sisterhood demonstrated by these women serve as a powerful inspiration for younger generations, encouraging them to become involved in community service and to advocate for health equity.
At the National Breast Cancer Foundation, we are profoundly honored to be a part of this vibrant sisterhood. We celebrate the strength, resilience, and unwavering dedication of the Black women who volunteer with us. They are not just volunteers; they are the heart and soul of our mission, nurturing a culture of hope and empowerment that extends to every woman we serve. We honor you, we celebrate you, and we thank you for building a sisterhood that truly makes a difference.
For women navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, NBCF remains a steadfast resource. We encourage you to explore our website for information on breast cancer support groups, free educational resources, and to find a patient navigator in your area. You are not alone.
About the Author
