Cancer Fighters Thrive is a quarterly print and online magazine bringing readers practical, innovative and inspirational information about cancer treatment and survivorship.
Issue link: http://cancerfightersthrive.epubxp.com/i/61344
ADVOCACY SPOTLIGHT Kids Care Participating in fundraising and advocacy opportunities can provide children and teens with an invaluable opportunity to empower themselves and give back. By Diana Price When a family member or friend is diagnosed with cancer, children and young adults affected by the diagnosis can ofen feel helpless and isolated. For many the opportunity to help raise awareness about cancer and funds for research provides a sense of purpose and empowerment that can help combat these feelings. In addition, becoming involved in cancer- related efforts can ofen provide a sense of community, as kids and teens create bonds with others who share their desire to make a difference. The following organizations have programs that make it easy for aspiring advocates and fundraisers. ALEX'S LEMONADE STAND FOUNDATION alexslemonade.org or (866) 333-1213 What began as one young cancer patient's front-yard lemonade stand has become a major fundraising force for pediatric cancer. In 2000 Alexandra "Alex" Scott hosted a lemonade stand to raise funds for the hospital where she received care, and though Alex passed away in 2004, her example spurs on the foundation created in her honor today. Through grassroots efforts that include lemonade stands hosted by kids and families across the country and additional fundraising initiatives, the organization has raised more than $50 million to date to contribute to a cure for pediatric cancers. Mission "To raise money for and awareness of childhood cancer causes—especially research into new treatments and cures—and to encourage and educate others, especially children, to get involved and make a difference for children with cancer." Why It Works for Kids Gillian Kocher, public relations specialist for Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation, says, "Being involved with Alex's Lemonade Stand is an empowering experience for all children and their families, especially those who have been personally impacted by a cancer diagnosis. Hosting a lemonade stand provides an easy and fun way to fight back against childhood cancer, and it empowers children and their families with the knowledge that they are capable of making a difference." DOSOMETHING.ORG dosomething.org or (212) 254-2390 Do Something was founded in 1993 by actor Andrew Shue (Melrose Place) and Michael Sanchez, with the mission of making community service as popular for young people as their other favorite pastimes, and to establish community service as a standard component of their busy lives. Originally launched with multiple offices around the country and based around a television ad campaign, the organization was transformed to a largely Web-based organization in 2003, focused on highlighting and facilitating the community efforts of young adults. Mission "We love teens. They are creative, active, wired . . . and frustrated that our world is so messed up. DoSomething.org harnesses that awesome energy and unleashes it on causes teens care about. Almost every week, we launch a new national campaign. The call to action is always something that has a real impact and doesn't require money, an adult, or a car. With a goal of 5 million active members by 2015, DoSomething.org is one of the largest organizations in the US for teens and social change." Why It Works for Kids According to Melanie Stevenson, director of business development at DoSomething.org, the organization is ideal for teens because of the three rules that drive its work: 6 cancer fighters thrive | summer 2012 cfthrive.com service