Cancer Support Virgin Islands (CSVI) has launched its 11th annual Pinktober, a month-long celebration raising awareness and critical funds for cancer patients across the U.S. Virgin Islands. As the territory continues to face rising cancer diagnoses, Pinktober has grown into a powerful symbol of hope, community, and resilience.
This year’s campaign comes with an exciting boost—a $500,000 grant from the V.I. government, coupled with a challenge to the community to raise an additional $500,000. In an inspiring show of support, businesses and community members have been stepping up to meet this goal, including Gov. Albert Bryan Jr., who has also pledged an additional $250,000.
The outpouring of generosity has already made a significant impact. In 2024 alone, CSVI has distributed over 260 grants, totaling more than $710,000 to cancer patients in the territory. Before the year ends, the organization expects to surpass $1 million in grants, helping more than 350 patients receive the care and support they need.
Introducing the Pledge to Partner Campaign
As part of its ongoing efforts to expand support, CSVI is launching the “Pledge to Partner” campaign, part of a bigger “Rise to the Raise” challenge, this fall. This initiative encourages community members, businesses, and caregivers to join forces in the fight against cancer through peer-to-peer fundraising. Participants can set personal fundraising goals and track their progress on a personalized leaderboard, all while contributing to CSVI’s ambitious target of $1.25 million for 2024.
Several prominent local businesses have already signed on to support the campaign, including Lucky Jewelers, Magens Bay Bar & Beach Boutique, Island Grind VI, CC1 Virgin Islands, Taphus Beer House, St. Thomas Carribean Surf Co., St. Thomas Yacht Club, The Market STT, Moe’s Fresh Market, Bank of St. Croix, Amalie Car Rental, First Bank, Anoush 242 Gallery, Heavy Materials, Leatherback Brewery, Bellows International, West Indies Company, Mutiny Island Vodka, Rock Rakers, Frenchman’s Cove Marriott and Virgin Islands Oncology & Hematology, among others. These partnerships are critical in ensuring that no Virgin Islander faces cancer alone and that the community continues to rally behind those in need.
CSVI’s “Rise to the Raise” campaign sets out to achieve three key goals:
- Community Engagement: Encouraging widespread participation through the leaderboard challenge, inspiring people to unite for a common cause.
- Lead Donor Development: Nurturing yearly donors to become lead donors, empowering them to inspire others in the community.
- Activating New Donors: Reaching untapped communities and encouraging more people to join the fight through respected pledgers.
Celebrating a Decade of Impact
Pinktober has become synonymous with breast cancer awareness in the Virgin Islands, and this year marks its 11th annual celebration. The festivities kicked off on Friday with the “Get Pink’D” event at Taphus Brew House and will be followed by a host of community-driven activities throughout the month. The goal of these events is not only to raise funds but also to highlight the importance of early detection, prevention, and support for those battling breast cancer.
“With over 400 cancer cases diagnosed annually in the territory, CSVI’s work is more important than ever. Since 2005, the organization has distributed more than $4 million in grants, assisting over 3,300 patients. Through efforts like Pinktober, CSVI continues to build a support network for Virgin Islanders navigating their cancer journey, ensuring they have access to both financial assistance and emotional support,” said CSVI Director Barb Michaud.
Residents interested in joining the “Rise to the Raise” challenge or volunteering at one of CSVI’s many Pinktober events can sign up at www.cancersupportvi.com or contact Jerah Coviello at Jerah.coviello@cancersupportvi.com. Michaud can be reached at barb.michaud@cancersupportvi.com or at 340-474-5129.
For those wanting to help out on the ground, CSVI is seeking volunteers for its “Give Cancer the Boot” drives on St. Thomas and St. Croix, where participants will raise funds with iconic pink boots. To volunteer, contact Anna Holley at anna.holley@cancersupportvi.com.
