Dust off your racing shells, dragon boats, outrigger canoes and kayaks – the Row for the Cure is just around the corner.

It’s a tradition and a fundraiser organized by a Susan G. Komen affiliate, and this September will be the 22 year that watercrafts hit the Willamette River as part of a battle against breast cancer. Event founder Kathy Frederick launched the fundraiser in 1993 as an alternate for those who wanted to fundraiser for Susan G. Komen, but who didn’t readily identify as runners.

The first Row for the Cure raised only $1,500. Today it raises about $300,000 annually. It’s also an event that’s grown far beyond Portland, with multiple events held across the U.S. and Europe every year. Athletes and average citizens of all ages participate in Row for the Cure by rowing, kayaking, and dragon boat and Native American paddling.

The money goes towards free cancer screenings, follow-up treatments, education and family support. And, of course, some of the funds are directed towards research and the search for a cure. Folks can get involved by joining the row, volunteering, of donating to the cause.

This week at Portland Radio Project we featured Row for the Cure as part of our award-winning Community Voices series. You can listen below to interviews with key members of the organization:

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