Born from Compassion,
Built on Community
Pink Pillars Foundation exists because no woman should have to choose between paying her bills and fighting for her life. We are a Dane County nonprofit dedicated to lifting that burden.
A Simple Belief That Changed Everything
Pink Pillars Foundation was founded after witnessing firsthand how a breast cancer diagnosis doesn't just affect a woman's health — it devastates her finances. Treatment means time away from work. Medical bills pile up. And all the while, rent, utilities, and car payments don't stop.
We saw women in our own Dane County community making impossible choices — skipping prescriptions to keep the lights on, or falling behind on rent while undergoing chemotherapy. We knew something had to change.
So we built Pink Pillars Foundation on one core principle: get money directly to the women who need it, with no red tape, no judgment, and no delay. Every grant goes straight to vendors — landlords, utility companies, insurance providers, and lenders — so recipients can focus entirely on healing.
Dignity First
Every woman who applies is treated with the utmost respect and compassion. There is no shame in asking for help.
Locally Rooted
We serve Dane County exclusively — because we believe in knowing our community and showing up for our neighbors.
Direct Impact
100% of grant funds support approved recipients — paid directly to vendors, landlords, and service providers on their behalf. We keep overhead lean so every dollar does the most good.
No Barriers
We work to make the application process as simple and accessible as possible — because fighting cancer is hard enough.
Our Mission
"To provide direct financial relief to women battling breast cancer in Dane County, Wisconsin — removing the burden of everyday expenses so they can dedicate their full energy to healing, hope, and recovery."
Proudly Serving Dane County
We are a hyperlocal organization. By focusing exclusively on Dane County, we can build real relationships, respond quickly, and ensure our grants reach women who truly need them — right here in our own backyard.
Board of Directors
Pink Pillars Foundation is led by a dedicated team of women committed to making a real difference in the lives of those fighting breast cancer in Dane County.
Sehade Carter
Founder & President
"When you feel the walls crumbling and hope feels out of reach, community is what stands beside you."
Sehade Carter is a breast cancer survivor who knows firsthand what it means to fight for your life while worrying about how the bills are going to get paid. She founded Pink Pillars Foundation to make sure no woman in Dane County ever has to face that alone. This foundation is also dedicated to her mother, who lost her battle with breast cancer. Sehade turned their pain into purpose — and she is just getting started.
Mandy McDermott
Treasurer
Mandy oversees the financial stewardship of the foundation, ensuring every dollar donated goes directly toward supporting women in need.
Marisa Toseff
Secretary
"She has asked me to serve as Secretary of this nonprofit, and I couldn't be more honored."
As a mammographer, Marisa is often on the front lines of breast cancer detection and diagnosis — making this cause especially meaningful to her. She is honored to serve as Secretary and support women in the community during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Whether you're a woman in need of support or someone who wants to give back — there's a place for you here.
Pink Pillars Foundation Inc. is committed to providing services without discrimination. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Our grant program is open to all eligible women regardless of background.