November is a powerful month for awareness. As fall deepens, many nonprofits organize walks, 5Ks, “Turkey Trots,” and events to rally communities. At Dream Maker Pins, we believe November ribbons are more than symbols.  Ribbons help shine light on lesser-known illnesses, honor those affected, and drive action. Here are some causes for November, their ribbon colors, nonprofits doing great work, and ways you can join in.

November Causes, Ribbon Colors & Nonprofits Doing Good

Cause Ribbon Color(s) Nonprofits to Know
Lung Cancer Awareness White Ribbon

GO2 Foundation for Lung Cancer - works for better treatment, advocacy, and early detection. 

 
LUNGevity - supports patients and invests in research. 

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Purple ribbon 

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) - research, advocacy, patient support.

 
Project Purple - raising awareness, offering aid, hosting events like “Turkey Trot” walks. 

Alzheimer’s Disease / Dementia Awareness Purple ribbon 

Alzheimer’s Association - education, caregiver support, research. 

 
Cure Alzheimer’s Fund - focuses on research toward slowing, stopping, and reversing Alzheimer’s. 

Epilepsy Awareness Purple ribbon

Epilepsy Foundation - support, education, research.


Local epilepsy support groups / chapters in many states.

National Diabetes Month Blue ribbon or light blue (varies)

American Diabetes Association - advocacy, research, support. 

 
Many local chapters run walks & public health screening events.

COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) Awareness Often gold ribbon (or varying yellow/gold tones) 

COPD Foundation - resources, education, awareness campaigns. 


Local lung health organizations & pulmonary clinics often host educational walks/events.

Walks, 5Ks & Fall Events — What Happens in November

  • Many November causes hold walks, runs, or virtual events (“Turkey Trots,” purple walks, etc.) to combine community gathering + visibility + fundraising. For example, Project Purple organizes a Turkey Trot each year to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer. 

  • Alzheimer’s- or lung‑related organizations often host “memory walks” or lung health awareness walks.

  • Diabetes associations host “Step Out” or similar events.

  • These events are great because cooler weather makes being outside more comfortable, people are in fall giving mode, and more public events happen as holidays approach.

Why the Ribbon Colors Matter & How They Help

  • Ribbon color = instant recognition. Purple for pancreatic cancer or Alzheimer's, pearl/white for lung cancer, etc. When folks wear the color, it connects understanding.

  • Helps survivors, caregivers, families feel seen; awareness reduces stigma.

  • These colors + ribbons often lead people to support nonprofits, attend events, share stories.

  • Wearing a ribbon pin or wristband with the right color becomes a conversation starter or reminder to others.

FAQ

Q: How do I know the right ribbon color for a cause?
A: Usually the nonprofits themselves list what ribbon color they use. For example, lung cancer = white; pancreatic = purple; Alzheimer’s = purple. If you’re designing a ribbon pin or wristband, double‑check with the cause’s official site.

Q: Are November causes only about cancer or illness?
A: No — while cancer causes are big in November (lung, pancreatic), there are other causes too like Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, diabetes, COPD. There’s also National Family Caregivers Month, which honors those caring for loved ones. 

Q: Can I support more than one cause in November?
A: Absolutely. Many people wear multiple ribbons or mix color combinations. It’s fine to support multiple causes.

Q: What if I can’t join a walk or live far away?
A: You can still support by wearing the ribbon/pin, donating, sharing info, or even organizing small local events. Many nonprofits also offer virtual walks or online fundraising options.

November is a month filled with urgency, hope, and action. The white, purple, blue, and other ribbon colors we see aren’t just symbols. These ribbons represent real people, stories, and efforts. Whether it’s walking a 5K, supporting Alzheimer’s caregivers, raising awareness for pancreatic cancer, or helping someone with COPD feel less alone, every ribbon matters. At Dream Maker Pins, we’re dedicated to helping you wear your support loud and proud. If you ever want a ribbon‑pin, wristband, or something special to share the color of your cause, just reach out. You’re not alone. Let’s make November count, together.

September 15, 2025 — Heidi Walker

Leave a comment

Please note: comments must be approved before they are published.