Suits and Sneakers for Cancer Week
Suits and Sneakers for Cancer Week turns every basketball sideline into something more than a game. Coaches lace up sneakers with their suits, not for style, but for someone they care about.
Leverage the suit-and-sneaker dress code as a workplace wellness and corporate giving moment, driving employee engagement and donations to cancer charities while building brand purpose.
- Show your support: Post your suit-and-sneaker outfit with the name of someone you're honoring
- Corporate fundraiser ideas: Host a sneaker-themed bake sale or raffle to raise money for cancer programs
- Real stories matter: Share how early screening made a difference for someone you know
- Walk together: Organize a team sneaker walk to connect with colleagues while supporting cancer awareness
Back in 1993, Norm Stewart, head coach at the University of Missouri, wanted to help. He had survived cancer himself and knew others were going through the same thing.
So, he asked fans to donate money for every three-pointer his team made during the season.
That small idea sparked something bigger. His efforts led to the start of the Coaches vs. Cancer program in partnership with the American Cancer Society.
Soon, other college coaches joined him. They saw how basketball could bring people together to raise money and spread hope.
The suit-and-sneaker tradition came later. In the early 2000s, coaches began wearing sneakers with their game-day suits during one special week. It wasn’t about fashion. It was a way to show support for people with cancer and get fans talking.
People noticed the odd mix—dress clothes with gym shoes—and asked why. That question opened doors to real conversations about screenings, early detection, and the need for better care. The idea worked. It stuck. And it grew from there.
By 2011, the event had a name: Suits and Sneakers Week. Each January, coaches from schools across the country joined the effort. The National Association of Basketball Coaches helped lead the way, with hundreds of teams involved.
The event kept growing. In 2020, over 300 coaches joined in. Fans noticed. Broadcasters talked about it during games. Messages about cancer prevention and support reached millions.
The week became a big part of the season, both on and off the court. Coaches found new ways to support the cause, from raising funds to helping local cancer centers. Their sneakers became more than just shoes—they became symbols of hope and action.
Today, Suits and Sneakers for Cancer Week stands as a national event with a heart. It reminds people that cancer affects us all, but support can come from anywhere—even the sidelines of a basketball court.
The campaign keeps growing because the message is simple, powerful, and full of care. One coach’s idea turned into something that now helps many, one step at a time.
Dress with Purpose
Wear a suit jacket with your favorite sneakers to work, school, or anywhere you go that week. The outfit catches attention and can lead to important conversations. Add a name tag that says who you’re honoring to make it personal. Encourage your coworkers or classmates to join you. Take a group photo and post it with a message of support. Even small actions like this can leave a lasting impact.
Host a Fundraiser
Plan a casual sneaker-themed fundraiser. A bake sale, lunch event, or office raffle can raise money for cancer programs. Use bright decorations and include facts about early screening or local support services. Make the event fun but meaningful. Pick a trusted group like the American Cancer Society for donations. People give more when they know it matters.
Share a Story
Talk about someone in your life who has faced cancer. Whether in person or online, real stories touch people deeply. Keep it honest and respectful. Mention how early checkups helped—or could have. Don’t worry about making it perfect. Speaking from the heart brings others closer. Your story might inspire someone to get screened or reach out to a loved one.
Get Active Together
Gather friends or family for a walk in sneakers. Pick a park or neighborhood and make it a casual event. Bring signs or wear matching shirts with simple messages of support. Chat along the way about why you’re walking. Moving together creates space for connection and care. It’s not about speed—it’s about showing up.
Learn and Share
Take a little time to learn more about cancer screening. Find trusted resources and share what you learn. Post quick facts on social media or send an email to your group chat. Stick to short messages that others can read quickly. People listen when the information feels clear and real. You never know who might decide to take action.