A Krewe for a cure

All along the Gulf Coast, from New Orleans to Panama City, there are groups of people who band together for a common goal, and call themselves a krewe. Generally, the common goal has been to have a good time, but some krewes are known for their philanthropy as much as they are known for their cheerful attitudes.

The Krewe du YaYas are one such organization, started 10 years ago by a group of women who wanted to make an impact in one of the most serious of diseases – breast cancer.

"It was started in 2002 by about 6 women that came up with the idea, they wanted to have a Mardi Gras float but do something for the community, and they chose breast cancer as the focus," said membership chair Brenda Adams.

The Krewe raises money through its foundation, the KDYY Keeping Abreast Foundation. Having foundation status means the Krewe can offer tax exempt status for donors who help defray the cost of their fundraising events.

"It gives us more flexibility in asking people for funds," said Adams "It's ideal to have our expenses covered, so all the participant funds go back into the community."

 For more on this story, see the Oct, 6 issue of Navarre Press or subscribe online.