Mission
Since our founding in 1970, ACCO has been at the forefront of advocating for childhood cancer research funding. Despite extensive successes at the federal level, research remains sorely underfunded.
In 2011, ACCO conducted an analysis of state-based comprehensive cancer control plans. We concluded that more than half of our nation’s states had no childhood cancer language included in their plans. These plans guide and coordinate efforts within the state to gather state-specific cancer incidence and mortality data, as well as identify and implement goals and strategies specific to address their cancer burden and needs. The majority of plans and associated state-based funding were focused primarily on adult cancer.
In 2016, ACCO asked a critical question: “What about kids?” Since then, we have taken the lead to represent childhood cancer on state cancer working groups, as well as securing childhood cancer research funding at the state level. ACCO has joined over 40 state cancer control plans and is the only nationally-recognized organization specializing in childhood cancer to do so.
Donors raise
$250,000
For ACCO…
…ACCO’s advocacy program spreads to more states, prioritizing childhood cancer across the country…
…State governments agree to secure more funding for childhood cancer research…
$25,000,000
new state funds are appropriated for childhood cancer research.
ACCO has proven that states play a critical role in overcoming the national disparity between adult and childhood cancer research, treatment, and support. This has only been possible through our donor-funded What About Kids?® advocacy initiative.
Training New Advocates
As part of our What About Kids?® program, our training has recruited more than 1,100 childhood cancer advocates across 49 states. These grassroots advocates support state-specific ACCO-led initiatives.
SIGN UP: BE AN ADVOCATEGoals
ACCO’s goal is to secure state-based childhood cancer research funding in 25 states by 2030. This goal is in line with the World Health Organization and their Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer: to increase global survival to 60% by 2030, thereby saving an additional 1 million children’s lives.