Walking with Purpose: Summer Fridays Joins the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk
October is a time to come together—to honor strength, celebrate hope and raise awareness for a cause that touches so many lives. This year, our Summer Fridays team proudly joined the Annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk in Santa Monica, standing side by side with thousands of others united by one mission: to help end breast cancer.
Hosted each year on the iconic Santa Monica Pier, Making Strides is more than just a walk—it’s a celebration of courage, community and compassion. Organized by the American Cancer Society, the event brings together survivors, supporters and advocates for an inspiring day of action and awareness. From sunrise over the ocean to the final steps of the 5K, the energy throughout the day is nothing short of incredible.
Supporting a Cause Close to Our Hearts
At Summer Fridays, we believe that beauty begins with how we care—for ourselves, for each other and for our communities. Giving back has always been an essential part of who we are, and this year’s Making Strides event was especially meaningful.
Our co-founders, Marianna Hewitt and Lauren Ireland, proudly served as co-chairs for the Santa Monica walk, helping lead this year’s efforts to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer research, early detection and patient support.
As part of the event, our team hosted a Summer Fridays table along the pier—a small moment to connect with participants and share our gratitude for their support. We were honored to provide custom Summer Fridays hats, water bottles and product samples in event bags as a token of appreciation for everyone who joined the cause.
A Community United
The day was filled with endless heartwarming moments. From the Survivors Lounge, where those touched by breast cancer shared stories of resilience, to the on-site screening tent offering education and resources, every corner of the event was a reminder of the power of community.
Our team was proud to walk the 5K together, wearing “Team Summer Fridays” shirts made just for the occasion. With every step, we were reminded why events like Making Strides matter so deeply: because behind every statistic is a person, a family, a story worth fighting for.
The Impact of the American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society (ACS) has been at the forefront of the fight against breast cancer for decades. Their impact spans across vital research, patient care and education:
- Research & Innovation: The ACS funds groundbreaking studies that help improve prevention, diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer. Their support has contributed to major advancements in early detection and life-saving therapies.
- Patient Support: From free transportation to treatment to providing 24/7 guidance through their helpline, ACS ensures that patients and families never have to face cancer alone.
- Education & Awareness: Through events like Making Strides, the organization empowers communities with knowledge and resources to prioritize breast health and encourage regular screenings.
Every donation and every step taken helps fuel this critical work—creating a ripple effect of hope that extends far beyond the event itself.
Our Commitment to Giving Back
At Summer Fridays, we’re always inspired by the ways our community shows up—for themselves, for others and for the world around them. Whether it’s supporting local initiatives, championing mental health awareness or joining movements like Making Strides, we believe in the power of collective kindness to make meaningful change.
Philanthropy isn’t just something we do once a year—it’s a reflection of our core values. From day one, our brand has been built around connection and care. Partnering with organizations like the American Cancer Society allows us to channel that care into something bigger, helping foster a future filled with hope, healing and continued research.
How You Can Get Involved
If you’re inspired to take part, there are so many ways to support the American Cancer Society and the Making Strides movement—whether by donating, volunteering or joining a walk near you. Every action, big or small, makes a difference.
You can learn more and get involved by visiting Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.
From our entire team at Summer Fridays, thank you to everyone who joined us in Santa Monica—and to everyone, everywhere, who continues to support this important cause. Because when we walk together, we create strides that truly make a difference.
