Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of early detection, research, and support for those impacted by breast and gynecological cancers. At Community Health Alliance (CHA), we’re proud to stand with survivors, families, and our community by participating in meaningful events that spread hope, raise awareness, and help fund vital services.

On October 8th at 3:30 pm, CHA will host a paint party where 15 pumpkins will be decorated by staff and friends. These pumpkins aren’t just festive—they will be part of something much larger. Each one will be donated to the 9th Annual Pink Pumpkin Sale at the Monkey Bar & Grille in Maineville on October 11. What began as a small effort has now grown into Cincinnati’s largest Pink Pumpkin community event, with more than a thousand decorated pumpkins, handmade crafts, raffles, baked goods, live music, food, and a beautiful VIP Survivor Section. The energy of the day is as uplifting as it is moving, with all proceeds benefiting Pink Ribbon Good, an organization dedicated to providing free meals, rides, housecleaning, and peer support to those facing breast and gynecological cancers.

For CHA, the event carries special meaning. Last year, Kelly Hibner-Kalb, our Vice President of Human Resources, shared how it all began when her dear friend Betsey was diagnosed with breast cancer. Betsey fought courageously but passed away in 2023 at the age of 47. The sale continues in her honor, a way to keep her joy and light alive while bringing people together to support those still in the fight. As Kelly reminds us, one in eight women will face a breast cancer diagnosis, and that statistic means nearly every family will feel the impact at some point in their lives.

The Pink Pumpkin Sale is more than a fundraiser. It is a celebration of survivors, a remembrance of loved ones lost, and a powerful symbol of how a community can come together to spread hope. CHA is proud to play a part in this story, knowing that even something as simple as a hand-painted pumpkin can carry a message of strength, love, and resilience.