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National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation Celebrates Vitiligo Awareness Month with 5th Annual Vitiligo Toucan 5K Race, Run & Walk


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation Celebrates Vitiligo Awareness Month with 5th Annual Vitiligo Toucan 5K Race, Run & Walk

Atlanta, Georgia – June 2026 – National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation announces its observance of Vitiligo Awareness Month and invites the public to participate in its 5th Annual Vitiligo Toucan 5K Race, Run & Walk on Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Vitiligo Awareness Month was established by National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation to increase public awareness and understanding of vitiligo, an autoimmune condition that causes loss of skin pigmentation and affects millions of people worldwide. The annual observance promotes education, acceptance, advocacy, and support for individuals and families affected by the condition.

This year’s awareness campaign arrives at a time of renewed public discussion about vitiligo, as anticipation builds around the upcoming Michael Jackson biographical film. Jackson’s public diagnosis helped bring worldwide attention to vitiligo and continues to create opportunities for education and awareness.

Many individuals living with vitiligo face bullying, social isolation, discrimination, and misconceptions related to their appearance. Through awareness campaigns, community outreach, support groups, and educational initiatives, National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation works to promote understanding and inclusion while helping individuals build confidence and connection.


Event Information

Event: 5th Annual Vitiligo Toucan 5K Race, Run & Walk
Date: Sunday, June 28, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Gordon White Park
1354 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30310

Virtual Participation: Available worldwide

Registration:
Register for the Vitiligo Toucan 5K Race, Run & Walk


The event welcomes individuals living with vitiligo, families, healthcare professionals, sponsors, advocates, and supporters. Participants may attend in person or virtually from anywhere in the world.

In addition to awareness activities, National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation continues to assist individuals and organizations interested in creating local and international vitiligo support groups. The organization provides guidance, mentorship, and resources that help communities establish sustainable support networks.

“Our mission is to ensure that no one living with vitiligo feels alone,” said Natasha Pierre McCarthy, Founder and Executive Director of National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation. “By bringing communities together through awareness, education, and support, we can help break down stigma and create a more inclusive future.”

Those wishing to support the Foundation’s programs, support groups, youth initiatives, educational efforts, and awareness campaigns may donate at:

Support Vitiligo Bond Donations


About National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation (Vitiligo Bond)

Since its founding in 2010, National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation has been dedicated to vitiligo awareness, education, advocacy, support, and youth empowerment. The organization builds inclusive communities and support networks that promote confidence, acceptance, and empowerment for individuals living with vitiligo and visible differences.


Media Contact

Natasha Pierre McCarthy
Founder & Executive Director
National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation

Contact: Ms. Mitchell
Email: vitiligobondcoordinator@gmail.com
Website: Vitiligo Bond Official Website

Natasha Pierre McCarthy is the visionary founder of the National Vitiligo Bond Inc. Foundation (Vitiligo Bond), a nonprofit devoted to supporting and empowering individuals living with vitiligo. Drawing inspiration from her experiences as a Christian business professor and the guidance of her pastor, Natasha turned a God-inspired vision into reality—creating a platform that educates, uplifts, and connects those affected by vitiligo. Vitiligo Bond promotes awareness through innovative educational initiatives, including Vitiligo 101 sessions at Emory University with Dr. Holla, community events, social media campaigns, partnerships with support groups, and collaborations with public figures and state leaders. By fostering a strong, supportive community, Vitiligo Bond ensures that no one with vitiligo feels alone. Through tireless advocacy, Vitiligo Bond and its dedicated volunteers have been instrumental in securing Governor Proclamations in multiple states, officially recognizing Vitiligo Awareness in Georgia, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Carolina, South Carolina, and West Virginia... The organization has also supported the launch of vitiligo focused support groups and nonprofits both nationally and internationally. Well-known brands have collaborated with Vitiligo Bond, featuring models from the organization to destigmatize vitiligo and promote inclusivity. Natasha’s work has earned recognition from Congressman Hank Johnson, whose support helped bring national attention to vitiligo awareness, including acknowledgment by President Barack Obama administration during Vitiligo Awareness Month in June. Current efforts also include legislative initiatives (HRES 792) to address bullying and advocate for youth affected by vitiligo. Believing that everyone is created with a purpose and deserves a full, vibrant life, Natasha reminds us, “We all have the ability to shine.” Vitiligo Bond remains steadfast in its mission to raise awareness, promote self-acceptance, support those facing bullying, destigmatize vitiligo, and advance research toward understanding and ultimately curing vitiligo.