Pink ribbons, pink socks, pink stickers, pink football jerseys—a variety of different organizations and corporations get in on Breast Cancer Awareness Month each October.

Raising awareness is important, but there are a few things to consider before you purchase a pink product this October. Is the organization or company you are buying from donating the majority of the product's proceeds to cancer research, screenings and tests, education or any other form of patient support?

That's where things get tricky. Some of these larger corporations are simply capitalizing on what some call "Pinktober." They sell a pink product to raise awareness but only a small percentage of those profits are actually benefiting those affected by breast cancer.

Wearing a pink ribbon pin or buying a pink car decal in support of those affected by breast cancer is a wonderful thing to do, but it's imperative to know where your money is going.

Promise Local is bridging the gap between generous donors and the worthy nonprofits who are spending your donations most efficiently.

For those based in the San Diego area, supporting a local nonprofit right in your backyard ensures that most of your donations are going directly to the cause.

San Diego's Dive into the Pink brings donors out on scuba diving trips in California and all of the proceeds go to breast cancer research and survivor support. Breast Cancer Angels of Los Alamitos and the Shades of Pink Foundation based in Encinitas both utilize their funding to assist patients with expenses such as housing, utilities, food, and transportation.

For transparency and reliability, donate to one of these San Diego area organizations during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.