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It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of cancer. There’s still so much we don’t know about cancer and after billions of dollars in research, we still haven’t found a cure. Yet there’s a lot of hope too. Like, according to Roche, the fact that there are 28 million cancer survivors worldwide, more people are surviving cancer than ever before, and researchers are making new breakthroughs in cancer treatment.
Instead of letting the enormity of cancer wear you down, take action. You don’t need to be a doctor, researcher, or even know someone with cancer to join the cause. Courtesy of Rockin’ Good Health, here are some ways everyday people can contribute to the fight against cancer.
Donate and Volunteer
There are many fantastic organizations supporting breast cancer research and cancer patients, survivors, and families. If you’re looking for an organization to support, check with watchdogs like Charity Navigator and CharityWatch to ensure a prospective organization is reputable.
GoodRx Health notes that one of the most impactful things everyday people can do is donate. Cancer research is costly, but donations to organizations like the Breast Cancer Research Foundation help move us towards a cure. Short on cash? Donate a percentage of everyday purchases you already make using programs like AmazonSmile and Giving Assistant or donate your old car to a charitable cause instead of selling it.
Don’t underestimate the gift of time. Volunteers help organizations behind the scenes with administrative support, event assistance, and other routine duties. Volunteers may also provide direct care to cancer patients through education, resource coordination, and emotional support.
Organize Fundraising Events or Start a Nonprofit
Crowdfunding is a common way to raise money for a friend or family member’s cancer treatment, but what about fundraising on a bigger scale? Walks and races, car washes,
luncheons, farm-to-table dinners, bowl-a-thons, parties for charity, and other fun events get the community excited about doing good.
Effective fundraising is all about telling a story. Explain why you’re passionate about raising money for cancer and share compelling stories of cancer patients and survivors to connect donors to the cause. And always remember to send a thank-you note!
At some point, you may want to organize your fundraising activities under a nonprofit corporation. Incorporation lets you enter agreements as an entity, rather than an individual, and protects personal assets if your group is the target of a lawsuit. It also opens the door to applying for grants and accepting tax-deductible donations. Take some time to familiarize yourself with what’s involved in incorporating a nonprofit, like writing bylaws and appointing directors.
Start a Business
You, too, can start a business supporting the cancer community. Popular types of businesses
for cancer patients and survivors include clothing and apparel, hair loss products, and skincare and cosmetics companies. Check out this big list for more ideas! For technical assistance getting your business up and running, connect with your Small Business Administration district office.
Already own a business? Launch a product and donate the proceeds to cancer research
foundations or donate a portion of every sale. For inspiration, learn how other small businesses are supporting cancer research through sales.
You don’t need to change the world to make an impact in the fight against cancer. Use one of
these suggestions or come up with your own creative way to join the cause. Whether you have a little to give or a lot, you can make a real difference for cancer research and the everyday people like you who are facing this terrible disease.
