A volunteer group that for five years has raised funds in Lincoln and Lane counties for breast cancer research has gone on hiatus for the rest of the year.
CoastBusters has raised more than $150,000 in walk-a-thons and other events in Newport and Florence.
“This intentional break comes as the organization devotes its energy to finalizing incorporation and securing official 501(c)3 nonprofit status,” the organization said in a news release. “This next chapter also allows time to honor the recent passing of CoastBusters co-founder and dear friend, Sonia Graham, whose vision and passion helped shape the organization’s impact and spirit.”
The group usually held fundraising walks in Newport in September and in Florence in October. Dates for next year’s walks have already been selected – Sept. 26, 2026, in Newport and Oct. 3, 2026, in Florence, said CoastBusters board member Jamie Michel.
After it receives its nonprofit status, the organization says it wants to broaden its reach, become eligible for grants, and offer more hands-on support to breast cancer patients and survivors.
“Becoming an official nonprofit will give us the autonomy, transparency, and strength to serve our community in the ways we’ve always envisioned,” said Jeanette Campagna, co-founder of CoastBusters.
