Play for P.I.N.K., Play for a Cure

“Play for P.I.N.K. began as an act of friendship. I never imagined that one decision would have such a significant impact on so many lives.” - Laura Lassman

Play for P.I.N.K. started with a friend, Laura Lassman, choosing to act, to mobilize a community, and to show support in a tangible way for a fellow golfer who had received a breast cancer diagnosis. With breast cancer prevalence soaring in the U.S., it’s likely most of us know the helpless feeling of a breast cancer diagnosis. According to the American Cancer Society an estimated 287, 850 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in 2022.

Determined to find a way to help, Laura organized a golf tournament fundraiser for breast cancer research at Alpine Country Club in New Jersey. This show of support quickly turned into an annual event at the club.

Buoyed by the reception and outpouring of support, Laura founded Play for P.I.N.K. (PFP) in 1990. The organization helps volunteers organize sporting and lifestyle events similar to the first tournament Laura planned at her club.

These events are varied, fun, and each one as unique as the volunteers and participants who bring them to life. From tennis and golf tournaments to dinners and auctions and even card games, if you can dream up an event, PFP will help with a full suite of planning tools and resources.

Play for P.I.N.K. brings over 20 years experience planning and executing fundraising events to more than 30,000 participants annually. Their support and expertise is key to turning passion into real, tangible support.

Believing the most effective way to find a cure for breast cancer is to fund research, PFP selected the Breast Cancer Research Foundation as their sole beneficiary in 1996. With this move, they guarantee 100% of all funds raised directly impact promising and innovative advances in the four pillars of the acronym P.I.N.K.: Prevention, Immediate diagnosis, New technology, and Knowledge.

The number of PFP supported events has grown to include 30 states and to date, raised more than $65 million, with $4 million donated in 2021 alone. This money currently funds 12 research projects led by 15 of the world’s most advanced and groundbreaking breast cancer researchers. Their work is focused on prevention and improving treatment outcomes for hundreds of thousands of women (and men) in communities worldwide.

It’s inspiring to witness how one act of friendship and an outpouring of community support is shaping the future of women’s health.

Plan your own event with Play for P.I.N.K and turn your play into serious support for breast cancer research. KINONA’s got your covered on matching pink golf outfits for your group.

During the month of October, KINONA donates a portion of sales of pink items to Play for P.I.N.K., and we’re thankful to partner in the fight for a cure.

Be sure you’re following KINONA for more stories of inspiring women in sport.