Going Pink for Purpose

November 2, 2026

In October, the youth and coworkers at Mercy Home’s Walsh Campus held their annual Walsh Goes Pink celebration in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. From encouraging coworkers and youth to wear the color pink to decorating the halls, the Walsh Campus dedicates October to the fighters, survivors, and those who we have lost to the disease.

Walsh Goes Pink serves as the celebration’s culminating event and allows youth and coworkers to raise funds, support each other, and learn about breast cancer signs and symptoms.

“Participating in and witnessing Walsh Goes Pink created a sense of connection and purpose,” Youth Care Worker Chasity Moore said. “It brought staff, youth, and community members together around a shared mission. I saw people openly share personal stories, support one another, and feel encouraged knowing they were contributing to something bigger than themselves.”

Moore’s own experience made the event personal. “For those whose lives have been touched by cancer, including myself, it was especially meaningful to see so many people come together to raise awareness and show support for individuals and families affected by the disease.”

Moore said that close family members and friends have been diagnosed with breast cancer. While her experience made her more aware of the potential risks, she said it also deepened her compassion for those affected by cancer. “At the same time, it strengthened my hope and appreciation for the importance of support, awareness, and early detection,” Moore added.

Walsh Goes Pink began with an on-theme dinner that featured pink-dyed pasta, pink-dyed dinner rolls, and a fully decorated cafeteria. During dinner, Mercy Home Program Manager Gewanda Monroe, with assistance from some of the youth, led an informational presentation on breast cancer where questions were encouraged.

“I was happy to see the youth genuinely interested in the facts shared about breast cancer,” said Youth Care Supervisor Colleen Verdun. “I think this presentation is important, so that our youth know how to do regular exams and when to seek consultation with a doctor.”

In addition to a slideshow of pictures showcasing coworkers’ and youth’s loved ones who have experienced breast cancer, Monroe gave attendees an opportunity to honor those they know who were diagnosed.

In an especially powerful moment, Youth Care Worker Denise Dinkins-Mines publicly proclaimed herself as a survivor for the first time.

“Participating in Walsh Goes Pink impacted me this year because, in previous years, I was embarrassed about saying I survived it,” she said. “But as I’ve gotten older, I realize it’s a blessing to say that I am a breast cancer survivor.”

Later in the week, youth and coworkers began the day raising money for Gilda’s Club Chicago by taking their pick of sweet treats from the Walsh Goes Pink Bake Sale. Gilda’s Club Chicago offers free activities and programs to those affected by breast cancer, including medical care resources and educational lectures.

We are grateful to everyone who made this year’s Walsh Goes Pink event a success.