Every year, a group of young people, ages 10-16, come together to form the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer Youth Crew, a key volunteer team for the Boston Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. The Youth Crew provides support to the more than 3,000 walkers taking part in this two-day, 39-mile event to raise funds for breast cancer research. From setting up tents to cleaning up trash to motivating tired walkers, this group of young people gladly unites in the fight against cancer.
Each team member is responsible for raising $500 prior to the event. In 2013, the group raised more than $20,000 to support breast cancer research and outreach programs in Massachusetts. In order to be part of the crew, each teen also attends workshops and retreats prior to the event, and organizes fundraisers to reach their fundraising goals. As they grow older, many of the youth crew members go on to walk the 39.3 miles themselves. Since 2007, youth crews participating in Avon Walks in eight cities across the country have raised more than $1 million.
With smiles on their faces and an unwavering dedication to the cause, the teen crew is a tremendous show of support for fellow volunteers, the walkers and those battling cancer each and every day. Says another volunteer, “Their participation empowers them to take action in a cause larger than themselves and form friendships that outlast this very special weekend.”
