Business group helps fight against breast cancer

NEWTON — Many people in the community may be familiar with business networking organization BNI as a business development and professional networking group, but the Newton chapter, Businesss Builders, has far exceeded this limited definition.

A breast cancer survivor and BNI member announced during a recent meeting that a collection would be taken to benefit breast cancer awareness. The proceeds reached nearly $600, all of which will contribute to the cause.

The Sussex County chapter of BNI is part of a national organization of professionals who work to harness the power of networking and referrals, according to an organization news release.

With a slogan of “Givers gain,” the organization focuses not only on giving business to partners, but to giving back to the community. Each chapter connects select community business leaders and provides the opportunity for networking and project collaboration, which can improve the individuals involved as well as the community at large, according to the release.

This private collection raised a substantial donation, and the BNI members were proud to contribute to the fight against breast cancer. In addition, all members wore something pink to their weekly meeting, and reminded people of breast cancer awareness throughout the day.

The proceeds of the fundraiser will be donated to the Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey Foundation.

BNI is always interested in expanding in the community, and the Sussex County chapter offers services in the law, real estate, financial, graphic/website design, marketing, photography, bookkeeping, nutrition, contracting, landscaping, chiropractor, and other industries.

For more information visit www.bni.com or contact President Joe Kopec at 973-670-3278.