You’ll undoubtedly be seeing a lot of the color pink during October. It’s National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so everything from NFL teams to small businesses will be wearing or showcasing pink items to demonstrate their support. This month’s issue of Town&Gown even has an interview in our “Lunch with Mimi” column with Erin Tench, the new executive director of the Pennsylvania Pink Zone.
However, October also is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, SIDS Awareness Month, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, and, even, National Cyber Security Awareness Month (which seems to be even more important during this election year), to name a few.
You’ve likely noticed that each month of the year has at least a few causes that are recognized for “awareness” or “prevention” during that month, which may cause some to wonder why having an “awareness” month is needed to help a cause.
We know breast cancer, for example, affects people 365 days a year. Do the 31 days in October set aside for Breast Cancer Awareness Month really make a difference?
From a financial aspect, my guess is having an “awareness” month makes a big difference. Organizations affiliated with whatever “awareness” month it is probably receive their largest donations during that month.
Maybe more importantly, though, an “awareness” month serves as a reminder to everyone that there is — breast cancer, domestic violence, people who have Down syndrome, families coping with pregnancy loss, etc. While we know these, and most of the other causes that are recognized with an “awareness” or “prevention” month, exist, designating a month to recognize some of these issues allows — and, maybe in some cases, forces — us to talk more openly, look more closely, and gain a better understanding of these issues.
No one wants to talk about domestic violence, but during Domestic Violence Awareness Month this month there are more opportunities set aside to have this important issue out in the forefront in the form of events. One event this month, on October 17, is a screening and discussion of the WPSU documentary, Telling Amy’s Story, about Amy McGee of State College, who was killed in 2001 and her husband was found guilty of the murder.
Then there are active ways to help causes. October 15 is the annual Centre Region Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk. It is the organization’s biggest fund-raiser and promotes “understanding and acceptance of individuals with Down syndrome.” You can read more about it in our Q&A with Raquel Ross, president of the society.
No matter what month it is, there are issues we should always be aware of and maybe find ways to help people who are affected by them. It doesn’t hurt to have about 30 days out of a year when that awareness is sharpened even more.
More Town&Gown Magazine
View all Town&Gown Magazine
Learning Never Retires at Penn State’s OLLI
Brynn Rousselin discusses how OLLI at Penn State brings lifelong learners together through education, travel, and community engagement
Keeping the Magic Alive for 60 Years: The Enduring Appeal of the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts
No matter what challenges or evolution has come its way, though, The Arts Festival has always retained the magic that has defined it from the very first day in 1967.
Local Historia: Gregg Post No. 95
James P. Gregg and Theodore Gregg were not only cousins, but brothers in arms. Both of their names held tremendous respect and value to their comrades at the Gregg Post of the GAR and beyond, an honor they share eternally.
