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History of Stepping Out To Celebrate Life

In 1996, a group of recent breast cancer survivors joined together to organize an event that would raise money for local nonprofit breast health organizations. Two hundred patrons attended the first annual Stepping Out to Celebrate Life gala, held in a Kentfield garden. From funds raised, a total of $42,000 was granted to the American Cancer Society’s Reach to Recovery Program and the B.R.E.A.S.T. Center at Marin General Hospital.

Inspired by the success of their first effort, the women formed the Marin Breast Cancer Committee (later known as the Marin Breast Cancer Council or MBCC) and continued to hold a yearly event. Stepping Out grew in popularity, with many patrons and sponsors participating every year.  Today, To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer Foundation continues to produce the eagerly anticipated gala at Marin Center Exhibit Hall each fall, with proceeds benefiting women, men and families throughout the San Francisco Bay Area who are affected by breast cancer.

"When we began this project we just wanted to help each other," says Janice Still, one of the founders. "In helping each other, we helped ourselves, and we developed strength and encouragement and support for so many others."