Monster Mile Walk, other ways to support breast cancer awareness

One of the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition’s signature fund-raising events, the Monster Mile Walk for a Cause, returns for the 14^th year with a new location and an expansion to include family fun activities, music, food, games, and more.

This year, Homestead Gardens will host the  9 a.m. to 3 p.m. event Oct. 21 at their Smyrna store, at 5580 Dupont Highway.

“This has always been one of our most popular fundraisers with so many people walking the Monster Mile wearing fun costumes,” said Stephanie Cumella, program manager of DBCC’s Young Survivors.

“This year, we decided to expand the event and add a lively after-party and fall festival to the event. We are making this very family-friendly with yard games, a straw pit and more. As always, four-legged family members can also join, and we hope to see them in costume, too!”

Homestead Gardens offered its location for the event that has increased in popularity over the past 13 years.

Homestead not only created a path for the walk on its property but also put together the festival and the after-party.

“You’ll weave through thousands of seasonal plants and activities guaranteed to bring out the green monster in you!” said Hayley Ross, marketing manager at Homestead.

The walk begins at 11 a.m., with registration starting at 9 a.m. The cost is $25 per person in advance and $30 per person on race day. T-shirts are included in the price while supplies last. Children under 12 are free with a registered adult, but children will not receive aT-shirt.

Awards will be given for the highest individual fundraiser, the best individual costume, best dog costume, highest team fundraiser, best team costume and largest team. To register or create a team, go to https://give.debreastcancer.org/ge/monster2023.

“It is so easy and fun to create a team,” Cumella said. “This is a great way to rally family, friends and co-workers. We invite you to get creative, make your own T-shirts, costumes and accessories. We definitely believe we can all achieve more with a supportive team by our side!”

Sponsorships are available at four different levels, ranging from $250 to $3,000. This event would not be possible without the support of local businesses and individuals willing to sponsor. For more go to https://give.debreastcancer.org/ge/monster2023 or email [email protected].

Beyond the Monster Mile

Other events supporting the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition this fall include:

• On Sept. 30 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Wheels and Wine Open Car Show is planned at Pizzadilli Vineyard and Winery at 1683 Peach Basket Road in Felton. The cost to enter the car show is  $15 in advance and $20 the day of the show. This is a judged show, and the first 100 cars will receive dash plaques. There are 40 trophies as well as a “Best in Show” award. The four classes include Corvette, Street Stock, Modified and Restored. Registration is from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. A 50/50 drawing will be held at 1 p.m. and there will be an auction. Trophies will be awarded at 1:30 p.m. Dance with the DJ, enter to win prizes including gift baskets and crafts. Lunch, beverages and wine tastings are also available. For vendor information, contact Angela at 302-270-0061; for show information contact Pat D. at 703-403-9050.
• Oct. 3 is the date of the Bear Trap Dunes Golf Club Dunes Pink Classic, sponsored by the Women’s Golf Association. Since 2011, the association has partnered with the coalition for this golf classic, which has raised more than $477,000 over the years. For more information, contact Marie Curran at [email protected] or call 410-703-6350. The classic is limited to 140 female golfers.
• Dewey Goes Pink, one of DBCC’s largest partnerships, sells out every year. Hosted by the Starboard & The Rehoboth Body Shop, this Dewey Beach event unites the community in a way  described as “magical.” This year’s event will be Oct. 7 and feature a new online auciton. Information is available here.
• Deer Park Goes Pink Oct. 22. This 5k includes an exciting post-race party featuring live music, pulled pork sandwiches, continental breakfast, bloody marys, grapefruit crushes, beer, soft drinks and more! Learn more here.

The Coalition offers statewide programs and services. Learn more at www.debreastcancer.org.