In a world often focused on personal gain and success, there are stories that remind us of the power of community, friendship, and giving back. To wrap up season one of the What Moves Her podcast we featured two incredibly inspiring women, Joanne Liscovitz and Kathleen Cirioli. These two women have not only built a friendship grounded in shared passion, but have also turned adversity into a beacon of hope for others. Their journey is a testament to how passion, resilience, and community support can truly change lives.
From Passion to Purpose: The Birth of Dance for the Cure
The story begins with Kathleen, a lifelong dancer who founded a dance studio in 1971. Her passion for dance created a close-knit community, eventually leading her to meet Joanne, who became her student and later a teacher at the studio. However, everything changed when Kathleen was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1998. Instead of succumbing to the despair that often accompanies such a diagnosis, Kathleen and Joanne decided to channel their energy into something bigger: helping others facing similar challenges.
This was the beginning of Dance for the Cure, a non-profit organization that has grown into a 25-year mission dedicated to supporting breast cancer patients. The journey was not easy—Kathleen and Joanne had no prior experience in charity work or fundraising. However, their unwavering passion and commitment to making a difference kept them going. Today, their organization has raised over $1 million to support patients in their local community, offering both financial assistance and hope to those in need.
Strong Women, Strong Friendships: The Foundation of Success
One of the most beautiful aspects of this story is the deep friendship between Kathleen and Joanne. Their bond is built on mutual respect, shared passions, and a genuine desire to uplift others. The podcast captured the essence of how powerful strong women friendships can be—not just for personal growth but for making a lasting impact in the community. Joanne and Kathleen’s journey from dance studio partners to co-founders of a life-changing charity is a shining example of what can be achieved when women come together with a common purpose.
The Ripple Effect: Inspiring Others to Take Action
What started as a small idea has blossomed into a movement. Dance for the Cure is now celebrating its 25th anniversary and has touched countless lives. Their flagship event, Ribbons of Hope, brings together hundreds of people every October, raising both funds and awareness. The event is a testament to the power of grassroots efforts—how small, local initiatives can create ripples that extend far beyond their immediate community.
Kathleen and Joanne have also inspired others to start their own initiatives, whether it’s a dance studio hosting a benefit or a sports team organizing a pink-out game. Their story is a reminder that no effort is too small when it comes to making a difference. It’s about taking that first step, following your passion, and believing that your actions, no matter how small, can have a significant impact.
The Power of Positivity and Persistence
One of the standout moments in the podcast was hearing Kathleen talk about the importance of positivity. As a survivor of multiple cancers, including breast, lung, and ovarian cancer, she knows firsthand how challenging the journey can be. But she also knows the power of a positive mindset. Her story is one of resilience and strength, showing how positivity and determination can carry you through even the darkest times.
Joanne, a successful Coldwell Banker Realty real estate agent, emphasized the importance of balance and staying motivated over the long term. Managing a thriving career while co-running a charity is no small feat, but Joanne’s ability to delegate, stay organized, and rely on the support of her community has been key to her success. Her message to those looking to give back or take on new challenges? Be fearless, tireless, and persistent—because with passion and dedication, you can achieve more than you ever imagined.
Final Thoughts: A Call to Action
Joanne and Kathleen’s journey is a shining example of how passion, friendship, and a commitment to giving back can change lives. They’ve turned personal struggles into a mission of hope, showing us all that we have the power to make a difference in our communities.
As they prepare for their next *Ribbons of Hope* event, there are many ways to get involved. Whether it’s donating items for their auction, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every little bit helps. If you’re inspired by their story and want to learn more or contribute, visit danceforthecure.org.
The lesson here is simple but profound: when we come together with passion and purpose, there’s no limit to what we can achieve. Whether you’re dreaming of starting your own initiative or looking for a way to contribute to an existing cause, remember this—every ripple can create a wave of change.
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