Zeta volunteers spread breast cancer awareness as part of NFL's "A Crucial Catch" campaign

Thousands of ZTA volunteers will gather at participating NFL stadium entrances throughout October, distributing free pink breast cancer awareness ribbons as part of a collaboration with the NFL's "A Crucial Catch" campaign. This year's line-up includes 28 teams.

ZTA provides volunteers for the efforts, as well as the resources—pink ribbons, jumbo ribbons for mascots, banners to hang in the stadium and more.

"Thousands of women and men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year," said Sherry Tilley, ZTA Foundation Vice President of Philanthropy. "We are honored to work with the NFL and its teams to distribute ribbons and breast health information. Together, we can spread breast cancer awareness to millions of NFL fans."

In 1999, ZTA partnered with the Washington Redskins for the first breast cancer awareness game. Since that time, the "A Crucial Catch" campaign has grown to encompass the entire NFL. ZTA is the league-sanctioned fan outreach partner for the "A Crucial Catch" campaign. Last season, ZTA celebrated the distribution of the 5 millionth pink ribbon given to an NFL fan in this program.

"The NFL is grateful to work alongside ZTA every October to enhance the 'A Crucial Catch' campaign," said Anna Isaacson, NFL Vice President of Social Responsibility. "We look forward to this all year and know ZTA is helping us make a difference in the lives of our fans."

In addition to "A Crucial Catch" games, ZTA sponsors and hosts many other Think Pink^® events year-round, including the Survivor Recognition Program at Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure^® events. Alumnae and collegiate chapters also host Think Pink^® events on campuses and in cities around the country throughout the year.

Since 1992, Zeta Tau Alpha Fraternity has focused its philanthropic efforts on breast cancer education and awareness. Each year, millions of pink ribbons are distributed and thousands of survivors are honored through ZTA programs. ZTA was founded in 1898 at the State Female Normal School (now Longwood University) in Farmville, Va., and has more than 231,000 members worldwide. One of the nation's largest Greek women's groups, ZTA develops members' leadership, academic and service skills, and supports breast cancer education and awareness.