Riverchase fundraiser supports breast cancer research

Published 2:54 pm Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Getting creative this weekend could lead to increasing support for breast cancer research.

Trisa Moutardier, owner of Ceramic Caboose – a mobile pottery store out of Alabaster, plans to host a fundraising event April 10 from 9 a.m.–noon at the Riverchase Country Club to support the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer.

The event will allow women to come together, create art, get pampered and raise funds to battle the disease, Moutardier said.

For each pottery piece purchased, pottery manufacturer Mayco will donate 20 percent of the sale and Ceramic Caboose will donate an additional 25 percent to the Vera Bradley Foundation. Moutardier said Ceramic Caboose chose to support breast cancer research since 90 percent of its customers are women. Moutardier said by creating a functional piece of pottery, everyone could help support a good cause.

Moutardier found herself drawn to this cause for several reasons. Many of her vendors were already connected to the foundation and her own cousin battled inflammatory breast cancer for four years before losing the fight.

“I always personally do something to support breast cancer every year and have for the past six or so years,” Moutardier said. “It seemed natural to pick up and run with this fundraiser.”

Ceramic Caboose also held fundraisers around Christmas to support the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree project. She said she hopes to host many more fundraisers.

“My goal behind Ceramic Caboose, my mission really, was to try and offer philanthropic opportunities for the community,” she said. “If I can grow my business and help someone raise money for a good cause, I’m all about that.”

Tickets to the event are $50 (tax deductible) and include a planter of your choice, paint and supplies, glazing and firing of your piece, a continental breakfast and raffle tickets to win a new Vera Bradley bag or BeautiControl Spa products.

For more information, visit Ceramiccaboose.com.