Page 31 - Giving Back Guide - 2021

GIVING BACK
Helping Local Families
story by Kelsey Sunderman-Foster photos courtesy of Costumes for a Cause
In 2009, a group of local women took notice of the financial hardships that family members and friends were experiencing while battling cancer and leukemia. They decided they needed to do something to help those battling these diseases.
The group hosted a Halloween Charity Ball to help a local family, and after seeing what they were able to accomplish with just one event, they decided to expand to help more local families. They chose to create a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization called Costumes for a Cause, also known as C4AC.
“What sets us apart from other non-profits is that 100 percent of all proceeds benefit local families and we are 100 percent volunteer-based,” said Julie Bradley, president of C4AC. “Because we don’t have any overhead expenses such as salaries, rent, etc., we are able to donate 100 percent of all proceeds to our cause.”
Through their many fundraising events such as Racquets & Rita’s Tennis Tournament, Chipping for Charity Golf Tournament and Jeepin’ for a Cause, they have been blessed to donate over $250,000 to local families.
“Our motivation comes from seeing how much our assistance helps relieve some of the burdens a family carries while battling cancer,” Bradley said. “We believe a family should never have to worry about how they’re going to put food on the table or pay bills while battling for their life. We know we can’t relieve all the financial burden that battling cancer can put on a family, but knowing that we help alleviate some keeps us going.”
Bradley urges anyone interested in becoming a sponsor, donor or member to contact her. She also encourages everyone to participate in fundraisers and donate auction items.
228.861.9270 www.c4acnonprofit.com
2021 Jeep Raffle Winners.
You could win this Jeep! Contact C4AC to get your tickets today.
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net
December 2021 | 31