Leann's Bras for A Cause Inc

Leann's Bras for A Cause Inc, a 501(c)(3) public charity, operates under the umbrella of Leann's Legacy, a broader initiative dedicated to supporting individuals undergoing cancer treatment. This organization continues the legacy of LeAnn (Schroeder) Hardiek, who initiated fundraising efforts while bravely battling Triple Negative BRCA1 Breast Cancer.

Founding and Purpose

LeAnn Hardiek, a young mother diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012, founded the Bras for a Cause event as a way to give back to her community after receiving overwhelming support during her fight. Although she passed away in 2015, her mother, Barb Starwalt, and friends like Dannie Braun and Ali Habing have carried forward her mission.

The organization focuses on providing essentials and gift cards to ease the financial burdens of those undergoing cancer treatment. It primarily supports the Crossroads Cancer Center in Effingham and the Sarah Bush Regional Cancer Center, extending its reach to individuals across surrounding counties.

Activities

The main fundraising activity of Leann's Bras for A Cause is the annual Bras for a Cause event, which typically includes the auction of elaborately decorated bras at local venues such as the Gabby Goat American Pub & Grill. In addition to this event, they have organized other activities like golf outings to further boost fundraising efforts.

Impact

Leann's Bras for A Cause has made significant contributions to cancer care. In 2018, the organization donated $2,700 to support women with breast cancer at the Sarah Bush Lincoln Health System, including nutritional supplements to improve patients' meals. The annual event has continued to grow in success, generating substantial funds to aid in the fight against cancer within LeAnn's hometown of Effingham and beyond.

Today, Leann's Legacy, led by LeAnn's sons Aiden and Will, along with her mother and friends, continues to honor her memory by supporting cancer patients and their families in meaningful ways.

References

• [1][2][5]

[1] https://www.sarahbush.org/news/all/2018/nov/leanns-bras-cause-aids-people-fighting-cancer/ [2] https://leannslegacy.com/who-we-are/ [3] https://www.womenrockinc.org/news/bras-for-a-cause-help-fight-cancer/ [4] https://www.capegazette.com/article/bras-cause-fundraiser-supports-breast-cancer-awareness-research/282714 [5] https://www.gofundme.com/charity/leanns-bras-for-a-cause-inc