A cup of hope

Women’s charity art auction raises money for breast cancer

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According to the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing, one in nine women are diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetimes. As a result, the Women’s Center, headed by Cindie Alwood, is constantly striving to combat that while also providing a safe space for women to receive info and help navigate the ins and outs of relevant healthcare.

With this kind of assistance comes the need for considerable funding. One particular fundraiser they are hosting is the 9th annual In Her Cups - Bras for a Cause Art

Auction. According to the center, art — or “br’art” in this case — was a natural choice to be auctioned off because it is something that can both help and bring joy.

“Art is personal, and art heals. By attending the event and/or submitting a bra, you are helping cancer, domestic violence, and other trauma survivors heal,” said a press release.

“Bras are submitted by individuals, groups, survivors, skilled trade groups and corporations,” the press release said. “You’ll see creations made out of ceramic, pipe-fitter and all sorts of surprising materials!

Bras are often made in dedication to loved ones affected by cancer or traumatic events, and survivors of trauma have made bras as an outlet to heal. Selected bra art will be up for bid in the live auction, and bras will also be sold via silent auction.”

Bras can be sold from anywhere from $45 to $350, and the proceeds from the upcoming fundraiser go straight to the center to help better fund the services they offer women dealing with breast cancer or survivors of sexual assault.

Since the first In Her Cups auction debuted on Nov. 13, 2009, it’s grown a lot, even though the price for a ticket has gone down from $40 a person to $25. The fundraiser has garnered much support from the local community like last year, when the Mitten Mavens Roller Derby team modeled the live auction bras for potential buyers.

This event has always been open to the public, and this celebration of decorated bras promotes a good cause for the Lansing area. Much of the proceeds goes toward one service in particular that the center offers, Cancer C.A.R.E.S. / Cancer Support Group.

Emily Reyst, an intern with the Women’s Center, shared some of her experience with the In Her Cups auction last year on their center blog. Some of her personal life affected her pride in the center. “My mom had breast cancer when I was a senior in high school (she’s been cancer-free since 2013). There’s a lot that a family goes through during this time, and the Cancer C.A.R.E.S. program at the Women’s Center offers the resources and support that help with the many hardships and feelings one has during a time like this,” she said. “My mom came to the event last year and it was really special, even though she got herself into a bidding war with the bra I made and lost!” Regarding the event more generally, Reyst views it positively.

“It was comforting to be in a room with so many people who are champions of women’s success,” she said. “You feel happy, inspired, and are moved deeply — all within two hours. The Runway is also a fabulous location for an event like this. Add food and drink in there, and it’s a win for me!” Reyst, as of last year, was the communications intern for the center while pursuing a professional writing degree at Michigan State University as a senior. This year would be her third In Her Cups auction.

“Look forward to a night full of food, drinks and empowerment.”

Last week, they announced a particular set of br’art submissions they’re excited about. “Just logged in two bra submissions for In Her Cups from the fine folks at CATA,” the Center says. “Even if you have never ridden a bus you will get a kick out of these bras! All we can say is that it involves seat belts and tokens…”

9th Annual In Her Cups Bras for a Cause Art Auction Friday, Nov. 3 6-8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $25 Lansing Runway Lansing 300 S. Washington Square, See Facebook page. Womenscenterofgreaterlansing.org (517) 372-9163

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