Chi Women hope to make cancer fundraiser an annual event
The Chi Lambda Sigma Women of Erskine College sponsored a 3K Breast Cancer Color Run Oct. 19, raising funds for the Self Regional Healthcare Foundation in honor of Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Naoma Nelsen.
Junior Savanah Koester, president of Chi Women, says, “It was deeply meaningful to honor Dr. Nelsen, who had a significant influence on me this past summer.” Nelsen, who was undergoing cancer treatment at the time, kindly agreed to serve as a faculty sponsor for Savanah’s research.
“Her generosity and strength inspired me, and this fundraiser was an opportunity to give back and showcase the unwavering support she has from the Erskine community,” Savanah says. “Highlighting her influence and resilience demonstrates how individuals can inspire entire communities to rally together.”
Self Regional Healthcare Foundation Executive Director Ken Coffey visited Erskine Nov. 19 to receive the Color Run proceeds from the Chi Women. Funds raised will be used toward the purchase of a new 3-D mobile mammogram unit.
“We were deeply appreciative that he took time out of his schedule to honor us and be part of this inaugural event,” says Savanah. “His presence added a special significance and made the occasion even more memorable.”
Many members of Erskine’s Chi Women have had family members affected by breast cancer, Savanah reports. “The sad prevalence of breast cancer fueled our determination to create an event that not only raised awareness but also demonstrated meaningful support for those affected.”
The Chi Women worked hard, and they had to work fast. This was the first time they had attempted to organize such a fundraiser, so they ran into “some hesitation from many community members,” Savanah says, which led to “moments of doubt” among the Chi Women about what they might be able to accomplish.
“We were working on a very tight and tough timeline. With only two months to secure sponsors, order materials, and advertise the event to potential participants, the time constraints added significant pressure to the planning process.”
As they prepared for the 3K Breast Cancer Color Run—participants who wished to walk rather than run were also welcomed—the young women learned a lot, and the learning process continued after the event. “We received fantastic feedback from attendees this year, along with a great deal of excitement and anticipation for next year’s event.”
The Chi Lambda Sigma Women hope to make the fundraiser an annual event. “Our hope is to secure larger sponsors each year, allowing us to make an even greater impact—not only on Self Regional but also on our community as a whole,” Savanah says. “With stronger support, we aim to expand the reach and effectiveness of this event, while continuing to raise awareness and provide meaningful assistance to those affected by breast cancer.”
The most rewarding part of the experience, Savanah says, “was knowing that we built a community that will continue to support our organization and mission for years to come.”
Shown at top of page: Ken Coffey of the Self Regional Healthcare Foundation poses with Chi Women in the Daniel•Moultrie Science Center Lobby.
