History of Embracing U Non-Profit Breast Cancer Foundation
Embracing U was founded as a 501c3 non-profit organization on September 28, 2010 by three breast cancer survivors: Odessah Mackey, Sonya Simmons and Cynthia Smalls all from James Island SC. The three had been meeting frequently to discuss their personal passion and mission to do something for breast cancer survivors in the community. Out of those discussions Embracing U was formed.
The Foundation’s mission is to: Embrace, Educate and Empower individuals to live a healthy life before, during and after breast cancer.
Odessah, Sonya and Cynthia did a lot of the work initially on their own, but then brought on a Board of Directors to assist and support the mission of the Foundation. Many of those original Board members committed to working to grow the organization until their term ended in 2016: Donna Blanding (Survivor), Jacqueline Singleton-Brown, Doris Grant, Rhonda Walters and Jacque Young. Later Monica Grundy was brought on the Board and served for 2 years. New Board members were added in 2017: Jennifer Green, Maura Gantz and Karen Graham Battle. The Board of Directors has been instrumental in continuing the mission of Embracing U in the Tri-county area and beyond.
Embracing U had its first Survivor’s Candlelight Gala in September 2010 at Hope’s Treasure on Folly Road, James Island SC. This event has been an annual event since 2010 as a way to celebrate and pay homage to Breast Cancer Survivors in the community. The Foundation also hosted a community health fair on James Island during the month of January in 2011, 2012 and 2014. Through various funding programs and community outreach events the Founders and Board of Directors have had the opportunity to meet and support many wonderful women and men and their families.
Some of the events that Embracing U Foundation host annually are:
- Pink & White Luncheon – held the twice per year (Spring and Fall)
- Annual October Celebration for Survivors, Sponsors and Friends of Embracing U
Monthly event:
- Survivor’s Support Group Conference Call
Yearlong events:
- Participation in numerous community Health and Wellness events as well as speaking engagements to bring awareness about Breast Cancer and promote Breast Health.
Lastly, this Foundation with the support of donors and sponsors has been able to assist with financial funding to support Survivors and those in the Community requiring diagnostic services, such as mammograms with the programs: Breast Cancer Breast Health Assistance Program and the Embracing U Giving Award.
We have built community partnerships with hospitals, churches, and other non-profit organizations in the area. We surely could not have accomplished all that we have without the support of those who have believed in our mission, our Sponsors, and Donors. For that the Foundation thanks you and looks forward to a continued partnership with you in the years to come.