about us
Bosom Buddies was founded in 1995 by Shirley Fitzgerald to support a friend who had been newly diagnosed and about to start her breast cancer treatment.
Today Bosom Buddies ACT Inc is a charitable organisation of volunteers who provide personal support to breast cancer patients and their families and supporters in the ACT and surrounding region.
All our volunteers have experienced breast cancer personally or through loved ones, they are committed to providing support to every person in our community who is going through breast cancer. Our Support Team works closely with the hospital based breast care nurses to provide hands-on support.
our work
buddy program
Personalised support for those newly diagnosed with breast cancer. Our volunteers assist by making personal contact with you.
ongoing support
Through social activities, information sessions, regular email updates and newsletters.
blue buddies
Through the breast care nurses or your oncologist we provide patients with a blue Bosom Buddies bag or oncology pack which contains various patients’ aids and information.
deliver ‘breast awareness’ presentations
At schools, government agencies, local businesses, not for profits and other professional service organisations.
advocating for improved services and treatment
In our region and acting as a voice in the community on issues related to breast cancer. We sit on a variety of committees and reference groups to ensure breast cancer patients are well represented.
fundraising
Raising funds to keep Bosom Buddies going is a continuous challenge as we do not receive funding from governments or national cancer or breast cancer organisations.
providing funds for better services in the ACT
(when possible)
our vision and purpose
To maintain our commitment to this community, Bosom Buddies seeks:
support
Widen Support that is available to those experiencing breast cancer – in particular, helping to ensure that the number of breast care nurses in the ACT increases, as well as providing where possible financial support to eligible projects. To do this, Bosom Buddies will need to continue to build networks and opportunities to advocate on behalf of all breast cancer patients and their families.
inclusion
Nurture the Culture of Inclusion by strengthening our capacity to care and build nurturing relationships with new patients as well as those who are well along in their treatment. Continue to build Bosom Buddies as a vehicle to connect people to local networks and reach out to a wider circle to ensure that Bosom Buddies is relevant to women and men of all ages.
awareness
Strengthen Awareness of Breast Cancer by increasing the reach of the Bosom Buddies Breast Awareness program in ACT schools, public sector, commercial and not-for-profit organisations. Seek other opportunities to share information and provide practical advice and options to those experiencing breast cancer including men. To do this, Bosom Buddies will need to enhance its capacity to gather and update information and to disseminate it.
funding
Secure Ongoing Funding. As Bosom Buddies does not receive funding from governments nor other breast cancer organisations, it needs to attract ongoing community support by way of donations, fundraising opportunities and sponsorships. In turn, Bosom Buddies needs to increase its profile as an important provider in the local community with a clear, shared story that can be readily communicated and ensure all fund-raising activities will enhance its profile and reach.
sustainability
Build a Sustainable Organisation. As a grass roots, local organisation of people who have experienced breast cancer and their supporters, Bosom Buddies has developed a more structured approach to delivering its assistance by developing a sound set of governance rules for planning and financial management that provide a high degree of confidence in its activities. Subcommittees now focus on five areas: Education and Support (including patient support and community awareness), Volunteers, Events, Advocacy, and Fundraising.
our financial supporters
We wish to thank those businesses and organisations for providing funds to allow Bosom Buddies to produce materials such as brochures and shower tags, purchase office equipment and pay for other expenses.
Canberra Southern Cross Club for once again allowing Bosom Buddies to be a part of the Community Rewards Program, the money received help support our operations and members.
Capital Chemist for their ongoing sponsorship covering the costs of Christmas cards, stress ball lemons and the printing of newsletters.
Independent have always been a big advocate for Bosom Buddies. Assisting with not only financial contributions but their staff are always willing to lend a hand at fundraising events.
John James Foundation for funding programs such as the Lymphoedema Garment Support program.
Beyond Bank constantly promote Bosom Buddies as one of the Community Rewards Savings account recipients. The staff at Beyond Bank are always encouraged to come along to fundraising events and shake buckets.
Holy Family Primary School invite Bosom Buddies every year to their Mother’s Day Breakfast and raffle to support Bosom Buddies.
Blue Illusion Manuka every year hold a fashion evening, a percentage of sales are donated to Bosom Buddies.
Kazazz Card making group has dedicated the funds raised during their retreats to Bosom Buddies and donate the handmade cards for us to sell at local events.