By Marcus Fernandez
Kinney, Fernandez & Boire’s Community Action Program is a unique philanthropic effort that empowers employees to give time in the community through paid time off for volunteerism. Each month, the KFB Law blog will spotlight a Tampa nonprofit at which an employee has volunteered. We hope to drive awareness, donations and participation from the Tampa Bay community.
It was just four years ago that Wanda’s sister lost her battle with cancer. A fighter until the end, she had fought both lung and brain cancer for more than ten years. Her strength was an inspiration to many around her. It was also the guiding force behind Wanda’s decision to volunteer her Community Day with the American Cancer Society in Tampa.
According to the World Health Organization, cancer was the second-highest cause of death globally. There are more than 100 different known types of cancer, accounting for more than 9.6 million deaths in 2018. While 38.4% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime, advancements are being made. We are now better understanding some of the causes of cancer, including tobacco use, sun exposure, diet and infections. With prevention practices and early detection, the death rate from cancer fell approximately 26% between 1991 and 2015.
Making a Difference
At the heart of these advancements are organizations like the American Cancer Society, which helps fund research, education and treatment. But, charitable organizations cannot do it alone. Volunteers like Wanda, who give their time and energy back to the nonprofit, help expand their impact. During her volunteer day, Wanda helped to stuff envelopes for their volunteer drivers who provide rides for patients who don’t have transportation to treatment appointments. The program, called Road to Recovery, is just one of several that fall under Patient Services and Support. More than 30 cities nationwide also have a Hope Lodge Location. Hope Lodge provides accommodations and serves as a home away from home for cancer patients who have traveled a far distance for treatment.She also spent time updating critical education materials that remind people at average risk to get regular colorectal screening at age 45. Screening and early detection are crucial in cancer treatment. But the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Resource Centers also seeks to provide help, hope and answers for those diagnosed, as well as their loved ones. They can help navigate with information about the disease, treatment and support services.
From volunteering to critical donations, education programs and fundraising events, there is no shortage of ways to get involved with the American Cancer Society. To learn more about how you can help, please visit their website.
