At Boston Medical Center, wearing jeans to work is more than a fashion statement. Each October, staff from across the hospital can wear jeans for Denim Day in exchange for a donation to BMC. The event raises important funds in support of patients battling cancer, allowing providers to offer gift cards, care packages, and other essentials to help patients through treatments.
When the fundraiser was conceived in 2007, it was a way for staff in the radiology department to bond and give back. To date, it has raised more than $33,000. Malissa Danforth, a manager in radiology, spearheads Denim Day along with other team members. “Our goal the first year was to raise maybe $1,000. Last year, we raised more than $4,000! We never expected it to grow so much or to be so successful,” she said.
The event is an easy way for staff to get involved and further support the patients they care for each day. But for many, it’s also personal. “People do it to have some fun at work, but it’s much more than that. I’ve had people share their own experiences with cancer or participate in memory of a loved one. It’s amazing to see people come together around a cause that is both personal and supportive of the work we do here at BMC,” said Danforth.
Malissa Danforth (fourth from right) with BMC radiology staff
“It’s amazing to see people come together around a cause that is both personal and supportive of the work we do here at BMC.”
—Malissa Danforth, manager in radiology
Better yet, patients notice the team’s efforts. Danforth says that staff will get asked about flyers promoting Denim Day, or a provider might mention it to start a conversation. “It builds connection and can be a nice conversation starter between staff and patients. It makes employees feel good and makes patients feel like they are in good hands with us because we truly care,” she says.
Organizing a fundraiser for BMC is easy—participants choose a fundraising idea, create a page on the Community Fundraiser website, then share it with their network to raise funds for BMC’s mission to transform healthcare. The process is quick and easy, and our expert Development staff are always available to lend a hand or talk through a fundraising idea.
“If you are passionate about a particular cause or the work you’re doing, creating a fundraiser is simple and so worth it. It allows you to help others and is an easy way to get involved!” says Danforth.
