The Greater Boston area is home to many exceptional nonprofits, but the ones that serve moms are especially close to our hearts. Boston Moms is excited to spotlight and support the local nonprofit organizations that make our area so great.
This month, we are showcasing the American Cancer Society.
The American Cancer Society’s mission is to care for and support those touched by cancer while intentionally striving for equity through inclusion and respect. They are undeterred by challenges and are relentlessly pursuing a world without cancer.
Join us in celebrating the American Cancer Society by learning more about their mission and donating to their cause HERE!
Where are you located? The American Cancer Society is a national organization, but we have a local office in Framingham with staff working remotely across the state!
What is your mission? Our mission is to save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer. We offer many programs and services to help you during and after cancer treatment. We make sure no one feels alone on their cancer journey by providing a 24/7 helpline, free rides to medical appointments, and free places to stay for people traveling to treatment.
Do you currently have a place for people to stay here in Boston while they’re undergoing treatment? Yes! The AstraZeneca Hope Lodge on Huntington Ave. offers free housing for patients and their caregivers who are traveling more than 40 miles from home to receive treatment in Boston.
What’s your favorite part about working at the American Cancer Society? By working at the American Cancer Society, you know every day that you’ll make a difference for someone who’s been touched by cancer. My favorite part is getting to connect with individuals, groups, and businesses in our community to empower them to make a difference in this fight against cancer.
Tell us about your ResearcHERS program. ResearchHERS is a campaign to fuel female-led cancer research. Women make invaluable contributions to cancer research, yet they’re consistently underrepresented in research leadership. ResearchHERS is changing that by bringing together influential leaders to raise funds to support women scientists. The unique perspective of women needs to continue to be a powerful and growing force in cancer research.
What does ResearchHERS fund? Our program is proud to fund “some of the brightest female minds in cancer research,” as Dr. Elisabeth M. Battinelli, our Eastern New England co-chair, recently noted. It gives “the best and the brightest a chance to explore cutting-edge ideas at critical points in their careers and bring us closer to a world without cancer.” We’re looking to sustain women-led cancer research and support the careers of women researchers.
What do donations to the American Cancer Society go toward? Donations to the American Cancer society support cancer research and patient support programs, and they help disseminate information and education about cancer prevention and detection.
Are there volunteer opportunities available? As a volunteer-driven organization, there is something for everyone! Whether you want to serve as a volunteer at a fundraising event or be a Road to Recovery driver, we’d love to talk with you and find a good fit! For volunteer and fundraising opportunities, you can contact [email protected].
What events do you have coming up? We have several local events on the calendar right now. The Red, White, and Blue party is on August 26 at Rowes Wharf, Bicycles Battling Cancer is on September 25, and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is on September 26 at the DCR Hatch Shell!
How can someone reach out to you for information or resources? Our helpline is available 24/7 at 800-227-2345, and there is also a live chat you can activate on our website.
Look for the American Cancer Society on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and their website, and donate to their cause HERE.
Are you interested in being highlighted in a Boston-area nonprofit spotlight, or do you know an organization that deserves this recognition? Let us know! Please email Chelsey Weaver at [email protected] to discuss a feature.
