BY SHAVANA ABRUZZO | Volunteers of all ages and walks of life fuel and energize the American Cancer Society, donating their time and skills to help eradicate a disease that has claimed so much from so many.
Here are some ways to give the greatest gift of all — yourself — to help someone battling cancer:
Road to Recovery recruits volunteer drivers who use their own personal vehicles to drive cancer patients to and from treatment and other cancer-related appointments. You must be above 18 years of age and have a current, valid driver’s license, proof of automobile insurance, and own a safe and reliable vehicle.
Look Good, Feel Better provides free cosmetics, and makeup and wig-styling lessons to women dealing with the aesthetic side effects of chemotherapy. Volunteer hairstylists, aestheticians, makeup artists, nail technicians and other beauty professionals conduct group programs or one-on-one salon consultations for a few hours a month at medical and health facilities.
DetermiNation volunteers participate in a marathon, triathlon, cycling race or other endurance event to raise funds for cancer research, making the finish line just the beginning!
Cancer Action Network enables the politically minded to help enact laws and policies to make the fight against cancer a national priority. Meet with legislators, plan events, encourage new membership, and help make phone calls. Network campaigns have led to 35 states going smoke-free, and increased federal funding for research.
Relay For Life teams camp out overnight and take turns walking or running around a track or path at a local school, park or other community space to raise money.
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk offers behind-the-scenes opportunities to raise awareness and funds.
The Society in Second Life is a three-dimensional virtual world built entirely by users. Volunteers can reach out to millions of people around the world to share the group’s mission, and advocate for those touched by cancer.
Leadership Council volunteers serve as ambassadors in their communities, collaborating with corporations, health systems, advocacy leaders and other community stakeholders to broaden the span.
Reach To Recovery matches trained volunteer breast cancer survivors with people living with the disease. Volunteers provide understanding and hope through face-to-face visits or by phone.
To volunteer for these and other American Cancer Society programs visit www.cancer.org/involved/volunteer/index or call (800) 227–2345.
