IWIN’s Illuminate Gala raises funds for Hoosiers enduring breast cancer treatment

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Indiana Women in Need, or IWIN Foundation, is a non-profit organization based in Indianapolis that supports individuals statewide currently receiving treatment for breast cancer. IWIN’s mission is to provide physical, financial, and emotional relief to Hoosiers while they are actively in breast cancer treatment.

People going through cancer treatment can feel exhausted and overwhelmed and sometimes don’t have the energy or means for basic tasks like cleaning the house, caring for pets, or paying for gas and groceries. IWIN steps in to lend a helping hand in these situations and has been doing so for 25 years. With 43 percent of breast cancer patients diagnosed reporting that they consider forgoing treatment due to costs, IWIN Founder Nancy Shepard wanted to support them, so they not only endured treatment, but thrived.

Shepherd started IWIN in 2000 when she noticed a friend was going through breast cancer treatment and she needed help with everyday responsibilities to make her life and recovery easier. Since Shepard couldn’t find any organization providing the help her friend needed, she started IWIN while working full time.  She knew if her friend needed this kind of support, there were others who would benefit, too.

Shepard’s goal was to provide support during treatment so that individuals felt supported and could focus on their journey back to wellness.

IWIN has now been helping Hoosiers for 25 years. The organization relies on volunteers, fundraisers, and generous donors to support its services. More than 9,000 Hoosiers have received assistance in some form since 2000.

Fundraising is a large part of the organization’s revenue, along with grants, sponsorships, and corporate donations. In 2024 alone, IWIN was able to give out 824 grants, totaling about $400,000. However, with 5,400 Hoosiers diagnosed with breast cancer every year, there is more work to do and individuals to help.

Illuminate Gala

Support IWIN’s legacy of compassion and future of hope at the Illuminate Gala at 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27. This is your opportunity to celebrate this impactful organization and the individuals who have been helped, as well as raise funds so more individuals can be supported in their time of need.

Come hear the powerful stories of the impact IWIN has made on survivors as reflect on memorable moments through the years. The gala will take place at Renaissance North Hotel Carmel, 11925 N. Meridian St.

Tickets can be purchased at iwinfoundation.org/illuminate-gala.

IWIN also actively seeks partners leading up to the gala to contribute, sponsor, or share items for the evening’s silent auction.

Come be a part of this fun event and learn of the impact IWIN has made and will continue to make on breast cancer patients in the state of Indiana.