What About Kids
If state funds have been allocated to adult cancer research, we must ask ourselves… what about kids?
The majority of cancer research at the state level is dedicated to adult cancers, not childhood cancers. With ACCO’s “What About Kids?” advocacy initiative, our goal is to secure 25 states appropriating funds for childhood cancer by 2030. Together, we can make childhood cancer a state health priority in funding and policies for kids fighting cancer and long-term childhood cancer survivors.
Get Involved
With the largest grassroots advocacy network in the country, ACCO is here to bring the needs of childhood cancer families to the desks of legislators. To join initiatives in your state, sign up for Speak Together: regular advocacy training meetings led by ACCO. If you have questions, reach out to us.
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.
SIGN UP HERENeed to contact us directly? Please reach out to our ‘What About Kids’ Director:
Jessica Beckstrand
Director, ‘What About Kids?’ State Research Initiative
jbeckstrand@acco.org
Comprehensive Cancer Control (CCC) Plan
The National Comprehensive Cancer Control Program (NCCCP) mandates each state to publish a Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan, which identifies how each state addresses the burden of cancer in its geographic area. Unfortunately, there is no requirement for childhood cancer to be included, which often leads to it being overlooked. We believe each plan should have specific language regarding childhood cancer, research, treatment, psychosocial standards of care, and issues related to adult survivors of childhood cancer. See if your state is on the list.
CCCNP Tip SheetDoes your state include childhood cancer in their state plan? Click below to find your state on the CDC’s masterlist of state comprehensive cancer control plans to see if childhood cancer is included.
Learn MoreState Proclamations
A proclamation is a public declaration from a state governor, often used to formally recognize a serious issue or emergency. Childhood cancer deserves this legitimacy. For more than five years, ACCO has consistently obtained more than 40 state proclamations each year, recognizing September as childhood cancer awareness month across the nation. Together with many committed advocates and grassroots organizations, we humbly ask for your help contacting the governor’s office in your state. ACCO, as a national organization, has contacted your state and they are looking forward to issuing the proclamation.
However, many times the request has to come from a resident. That’s where we need your help. Different states have different channels for seeking a proclamation. Contact us and we’ll work with you personally to help you request a proclamation in your home state.
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Get updates on childhood cancer advocacy, new ways to get involved and how our efforts are changing the lives of kids with cancer. Sign up to join our network today!
Follow & Share on Social Media
In our minds, advocacy is just a fancy word for storytelling. Only with raising awareness can we improve outcomes for kids with cancer. Social media plays a powerful role in sharing those stories. Follow ACCO on social media and share why you became an advocate!
