NCC brings breast health education to Pink Ribbon Night at Reno Public Market

Pink Ribbon Night at Reno Public Market was already shaping up to be an evening of music, community and support for breast cancer awareness. When the organizers asked Nevada Cancer Coalition (NCC) to attend and share information on breast cancer screening, we were honored to say yes. We also saw an opportunity to take the impact a step further.

We asked if we could bring our partners from Renown Health so attendees could schedule mammogram appointments on site. The answer was an enthusiastic yes. Evoke Warriors and Katie's Collective also joined the event. The collaboration helped transform the event into a meaningful, action-focused opportunity for breast health education and access.

Throughout the night, our team connected with diners and concert-goers who may not typically attend a health fair or seek out information about breast cancer. Being in a public, highly trafficked space opened the door to conversations with people who weren’t expecting to engage with a health topic but were open once they learned support was available. Attendees who'd been putting off screening or weren't sure where to get started had the ability to get questions answered, learn about breast self-awareness, and schedule a mammogram, making this collaboration a valuable service.

The evening also carried special significance. Pink Ribbon Night marked singer Patrice’s first performance since her breast cancer diagnosis. Her return to the stage—and her willingness to share her experience—resonated deeply with the audience. Supporting her made the night even more uplifting for the community members who came to cheer her on.

Events like this illustrate why partnerships and creative outreach matter. By meeting people where they are, NCC and Renown Health were able to provide breast health education, reduce barriers to screening and offer a pathway to early detection—all in a space designed for gathering, not for health care. It’s a reminder that meaningful cancer prevention work can happen anywhere a community comes together.

NCC is grateful to Reno Public Market and Pink Ribbon Night organizers for inviting us, to Renown Health for being a trusted partner and to Patrice for inspiring everyone with her strength and music. We look forward to more opportunities to connect with Nevadans, build awareness and support people in taking steps toward better health.