We’re shining the spotlight on Nicole LaGravenese, a dedicated Dance for the Cure volunteer whose passion and energy have made a big impact since she joined the team in 2021.
Nicole first got involved with DFC after attending Ribbons of Hope for nearly a decade. Like so many others, her life has been touched by cancer, and she always looked for ways to give back. When the chance to volunteer came along, she jumped right in. “After being 'locked away' for so much of 2020, by ’21 my goal was to get out and do as much as possible for myself and for others. When the opportunity to volunteer with DFC was presented, I knew this is what I wanted to do!”
Since then, Nicole has become an integral part of the Basket Genies—the team responsible for crafting the incredible baskets at Ribbons of Hope. But for her, volunteering is more than just assembling baskets or tying pink ribbons—it’s about the people. “Volunteering is not always easy, but these ladies (and gents) make every moment fun! Another volunteer recently said, ‘Who would have thought I'd be making so many new friends at this point in life?’ and I couldn't agree more.”
Balancing a full-time job and volunteering isn’t always easy, but Nicole makes it work. “You don't always find the time—you make the time,” she explains. That often means trading in late-summer days drinking coffee and eating lunch at Basket Central for dinner and a dance party with the night crew as the sun goes down.
At the heart of her commitment is a simple but powerful belief: “I am privileged enough to be healthy and supported, yet I have seen others struggle and fight for literally their lives. If I can help ease that burden in any small way, I want to do so.”
Nicole’s dedication doesn’t go unnoticed by her fellow volunteers. "Nicole, who holds the role of Basket Genie on the 'night shift,' is a fabulous member of our team at Basket Central! While she works full time and has a less than fun commute to Jersey City, she brings her energy, enthusiasm, and sense of humor, making for a fun basket building environment," extolled DFC co-founder, Joanne Liscovitz.
We’re so grateful to have Nicole as part of the DFC family! Volunteers like her make everything we do possible. If you’re interested in joining our team, visit danceforthecure.org to learn more.
Are you interested in volunteering?
Please visit our Support Us page or contact Joanne or Kathleen directly.
Visit our Volunteers page to see our great team!
Comments