CFC Charity Spotlight: American Cancer Society

Jim was diagnosed with an incurable blood cancer and was given 6 months to live. That was 25 years ago. He started an experimental drug through a study funded by the American Cancer Society and within two weeks, his cancer was in remission. “I told people that if I live five years with this prognosis, that would be a good run,” said Jim. “Research is a key reason that cancer is no longer a death sentence.”

The American Cancer Society, headquartered in Atlanta, is on a mission to free the world from cancer. Since 1946, they have invested more than $4.6 billion in cancer research and have contributed to a 27 percent decrease in the overall U.S. cancer death rate since 1991, helping avoid nearly 2.6 million cancer deaths during that time. From new discoveries on what causes cancer and cancer prevention, to advances in early detection and treatment, more lives are being saved than ever before.

In addition to breakthrough research, the American Cancer Society offers free rides to treatment, a live 24/7 helpline, and free lodging near hospitals at the Hope Lodge. Delmar, a two-time cancer survivor, needed to travel for a stem-cell transplant that would require a 100-day stay. Unable to afford a hotel for that length of time, Delmar turned to the American Cancer Society. “I got the same local support I got at home at the Hope Lodge,” Delmar said. Currently, there are more than 30 Hope Lodge locations throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.

The American Cancer Society (CFC #10570) is one of the Combined Federal Campaign charities supported through donations pledged by Federal employees and military personnel. The CFC is the world’s largest and most successful annual workplace giving campaign. Last year, Federal employees contributed more than $93 million to thousands of local, national, and international causes in both funds and volunteer time.

Through their generosity in the CFC, federal and military personnel have helped find cures for children with cancer, supported injured military veterans and their families, provided meals and housing for those in need, and improved millions of lives, building stronger, healthier communities for all of us.

Find out more information about the CFC.

Community Health Charities was an inaugural member in the CFC and represents top nonprofits like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (CFC# 10560), American Cancer Society (#10570), Alzheimer’s Association (# 11234), Samaritan’s Purse (#10532), Susan G. Komen (#10615), and Paralyzed Veterans of America (# 33835). They recently launched a #Thanks8billion campaign to recognize military and federal personnel who have given generously through the CFC, raising more than $8 billion over more than 50 years. To join us in saying thank you, visit our website for more information.