When someone is diagnosed with cancer, it touches not only that person, but also everyone around them. Our programs are designed to educate and empower anyone  – including youth, teens, young adults, survivors, caregivers, and others! We are able to provide our programs at no cost because of the generous support of our donors.

Student Education 

Cancer Happens®

Students, Educators, Parents
Three out of every four teens report knowing someone diagnosed with cancer. Because of this, we know how important it is to address cancer education in schools and in youth organizations. Our Cancer Happens® curriculum creates safe spaces for students to talk about cancer, where to turn for social and emotional support, and learn how they could reduce their future risk of cancer. We empower students with credible sources of information and address the myths spread by vaping and tobacco industries.

Teen Writing Contest

Cancer Unwrapped®

High School Students
Over 8,100 teens across the U.S. have participated in our national teen writing contest. Every story has been honest and heartfelt, and each one is unique, sharing their personal journey with their own cancer diagnosis, or the impact it has had on them when a family member, teacher or friend is touched by cancer. These essays are stories of triumph and stories of great loss, stories written in times of turbulence and stories written in times of quiet reflection. Winning essays are posted on our website to elevate the voices of teens and for others to know that they are not alone.

“I want to thank you for giving her an opportunity to take a risk and feel confident in doing something that took a lot of courage, and more importantly giving her a voice…you also gave me the opportunity to realize that she can process her feelings through writing by going that far back in time…” – Parent of teen writer

Camp Sparkle

Children and Teens (ages 5-17) 
For many children, Camp Sparkle is where they realize for the first time that they are not alone in their experience with cancer. By joining a community of children with similar experiences in a safe, fun and welcoming environment, Camp Sparkle is life-changing.

“Everyone understands you here. Knowing that there’s other people who went through it—feels good knowing that you’re not the only one” – Camper

Community Education

All ages
Our Community Education program connects those impacted by cancer to socioemotional support, educational opportunities, tools and resources, and research updates. We do this through implementing webinars and podcast episodes, increasing awareness about specific types of cancer, and partnering closely with other commmunity organizations, local health departments, schools, individuals, workgroups, and legislators.

Support Groups and Wellness + Community

All Ages
Our support groups and wellness classes are aimed at offering participants a safe place to connect, process emotions, reduce stress, and improve overall wellness. Weekly sessions are facilitated by professionals and available online.

Our Impact Over 20+ Years

Activities Calendar

We host numerous events that educate, support and enrich our community. Join us at no cost to you!