Nonprofit Spotlight: American Cancer Society

BY AMANDA SCHIMMEL

Cancer is more than just the diagnosis and treatment of the patient. It is the familial trials and tribulations, the confusion and worry that accompany the initial news, and a forever journey for many, regardless of remission. For more than 100 years, the American Cancer Society (ACS) has worked to guide people through this very journey with a mission to end cancer as we know it.

“The ACS is the leading cancer fighting organization,” Jason Plaia, director of development, says. “When someone hears the words ‘you have cancer,’ the hope is that that person will reach out to us and allow a connection to be made. In the end, we are that vetted organization and we can provide the necessary information and support to make a conscious decision.”

The ACS’s functions encompass a wide range of territory. “Everything that we do is dedicated to primarily three focus areas: advocacy, research, and patient support,” explains Paula Green, vice president for the Greater Philadelphia area. In addition to their own advocacy— which underscores everything they do— their sister organization, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, is specifically dedicated to policy and legislative action. Ultimately, the ACS strives to impact as many people as possible and solidify fair access to cancer prevention and treatment.

One of ACS’s programs even fosters the next generation of women-led research. Megan Kutzner, senior development manager for the Greater Philadelphia area, describes the RESEARCHERS initiative as “a campaign that brings together female community and business leaders to raise funds and awareness for women-led cancer research.” As half of the grantees within the American Cancer Society identify as women, this initiative ensures that grants are given to the best and the brightest in the cancer space and that careers are not disrupted after parental leave.

This initiative also funds the Summer Healthcare Experience (SHE), a virtual two-week program for high school girls interested in STEM; those who participate experience a great first look into what a future in the sciences involves. Kutzner explains, “It’s really exciting because I know at that age I had no idea what was out there in terms of careers, so being able to introduce this career path is a huge point of pride for me.”

Another rewarding way to get involved is the Road to Recovery program, which provides patients with free rides to treatment. “As we get more drivers, we will get more ride requests, so right now we are working hard to fill the ranks of volunteers,” says Plaia. Additionally, anyone is welcome to participate in their Making Strides Against Breast Cancer and Relay for Life events, both excellent opportunities to help raise funds for a great cause.

Kutzner perfectly summarizes the organization’s mission when she remarks, “For me, the American Cancer Society means being there for the patients and their families for every step of the journey.”