October is not just Fair Trade month, but also Breast Cancer Awareness month and people all over are rallying around the cause.

Breast cancer awareness is an issue for anyone who has 8 female relatives, 8 female friends, or 8 female co-workers. Every day in America, over 500 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer: more than 200,000 wives, mothers, sisters and friends every year. There is a 96% survival rate for breast cancer detected at an early stage. You can help in the battle through donations, volunteering, and taking action, and by learning about the disease and the options available to those who fight against it.

Want to make a difference in the fight against cancer? Explore these ideas and reach out in your community today!

• Search for the organization you want to volunteer with: Bright Pink, Men Against Breast Cancer, the American Cancer Society and the Breast Cancer Network of Strength, Rock For A Cure, and Breast Friends all often raise money for the cause through local walks, bikes, runs and other activities.
• Raise Awareness: Talk to other women about getting regular mammograms and checkups and about doing self breast exams. If you are a survivor, offer support to newly diagnosed patients for advice and expectations.

• Sign the Breast Cancer Petition. Or get involved by contacting your Senator to support Accelerating the End of Breast Cancer Act.
• Volunteer your time: You can make a difference to breast cancer patients & survivors in your community. Find a local nonprofit center or program that helps cancer patients and let the staff put you to work where they need you most. Find survivor stories, and patient and survivor tips here.
• Donate your money or your hair: Locks of Love, Beautiful Lengths and other groups can turn your hair into great wigs for those suffering hair loss.
• Send a breast cancer awareness e-card to eight women you know over the age of 40 reminding them to do self exams and to schedule a yearly mammogram.