The community came out in support of the sixth annual Think Pink Day held Thursday.

The day of activities was designed to raise money for the American Cancer Society and breast cancer awareness and education.

In the U.S., breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, and it can strike men as well.

“The key to living and surviving is early detection,” said Paige McCardle with the American Cancer Society. “Women and men need to get their screenings.”

McCardle said the event raised more than $4,800.

The annual event — which included lunches, raffles, t-shirt sales and a mini health fair — was hosted at Anthony’s Florist.

“This effort by Anthony’s Florist shows that any group or business can help the ACS,” McCardle said. “It shows that a small home-owned business found a way to contribute.”

Dena Boyette, owner of Anthony’s Florist, said she decided to begin this project six years ago to raise people’s awareness.

“This is to raise awareness for breast cancer. We’re raising money for the local chapter of the American Cancer Society. So, we are helping people locally,” Boyette said. “We are pleased with the community’s response. We have so many people involved and we are just helping people in our community.”

Boyette said numerous groups and organizations donated and supported the event.

Money raised from the event can go towards helping women with wigs, medical testing, and other cancer-related costs. But, it also goes towards educating the public about the dangers of breast cancer.

“The people of Jones County are just phenomenal,” McCardle said. “They have really supported us.”

Laurel Mayor Melvin Mack, who also attended the event, proclaimed the second Thursday of October as Think Pink Day in the City of Laurel.

Many who attended the event praised the organizers for developing a community program designed to educate the public.

Pam Steele, Gerry Whited and Karen Pool discussed the importance of breast cancer awareness and research with many of those attending the 2008 Think Pink Day.