Overview
Every October, communities across the country rally to raise awareness and support for breast cancer research. On Marco Island, that spirit takes center stage with the Fifth Annual Paint the Town Pink—proudly championed by the Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the American Cancer Society. Throughout the entire month of October, local businesses “pink out” their storefronts and offices to spark conversations about prevention, early detection, and hope. This island-wide initiative is warm, welcoming, and impactful—bringing residents, visitors, and businesses together around a cause that touches so many families.
What Is Paint the Town Pink?
Paint the Town Pink is a month-long, community-wide decorating campaign aligned with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Businesses across Marco Island transform their windows, lobbies, and displays in shades of pink—creating a vibrant visual reminder of the importance of screenings and the power of community. From pink ribbons and banners to creative themed décor, the island becomes a beacon of support for survivors, patients, and their loved ones. The Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce coordinates outreach, shares resources, and celebrates the businesses that participate.
Why Marco Island Businesses Join the Movement
For local businesses, Paint the Town Pink is so much more than décor—it’s a meaningful way to give back. Pink displays spark conversations about early detection and regular checkups; fundraising activities channel support to lifesaving research; and the shared purpose deepens connections with customers. Participation also honors survivors and remembers those we’ve lost, demonstrating that Marco Island stands united. The Chamber encourages every business to festoon their storefronts between October 1 and October 24 so the whole island shines pink for residents and visitors alike.
A Month of Awareness and Action
All month long, you’ll see pink-forward displays, community events, and educational reminders that inspire action. Many businesses host raffles, charity drives, or special promotions, with proceeds supporting breast cancer research and local awareness efforts. Photo-worthy storefronts help spread the message online—every post, tag, and share extends the reach of this important campaign. Even simple steps—wearing pink, donating to a fundraiser, or scheduling a screening—can have an outsized impact when the entire community is engaged.
The Role of the Marco Island Chamber
As the organizing hub, the Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce makes it easy for companies of all sizes to participate. The Chamber provides information, encouragement, and visibility for participating businesses, and helps connect the community with resources from the American Cancer Society. By coordinating outreach and celebrating participants, the Chamber ensures Paint the Town Pink is both fun and profoundly meaningful. Questions about how to get involved? Contact the Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce at 239-394-7549.
How to Get Involved (Businesses, Residents, and Visitors)
Businesses: Decorate your windows, lobby, and exterior in pink. Add ribbons, banners, and creative displays that reflect your brand and your heart for the cause. Consider hosting a small fundraiser, donating a portion of October sales, or sharing educational materials about screening guidelines.
Residents & Visitors: Support the businesses that pink out by shopping local and attending events. Take photos, post them on social media, and encourage friends to join the effort. Wear pink on your visits, and—most importantly—use this month as a reminder to schedule recommended screenings for yourself and loved ones.
Key Dates & Details
• Timeline: Paint the Town Pink runs for the entire month of October. For maximum impact, the Chamber encourages decorations to be up between October 1 and October 24.
• Information Flyer: View the official flyer and details here: https://myemail.constantcontact.com/5th-Annual—PAINT-THE-TOWN-PINK.html?soid=1100472083445&aid=0KrWiQJGDTM
• Organizer: Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the American Cancer Society.
• Questions: Call the Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce at 239-394-7549 for participation info or general questions.
The Bigger Picture
Breast cancer awareness is about empowerment—promoting education, encouraging early detection, and supporting research that saves lives. Campaigns like Paint the Town Pink help normalize important conversations, reduce stigma around screenings, and shine a light on resources available to families. The month-long visibility on Marco Island keeps awareness front and center and reminds us that small, consistent actions across a community create measurable impact.
Join Us This October
Whether you manage a storefront or simply love our island, your participation matters. Decorate, donate, shop local, and share the message. If you’re ready to get involved or want guidance on displays and activities, the Marco Island Area Chamber of Commerce is here to help at 239-394-7549. Together, we’ll paint Marco Island pink with compassion, resilience, and hope.