States have a critical role to play in overcoming the national disparity between adult and childhood cancer research, treatment, and support. YOU can join the movement to make meaningful change by engaging policy makers at the local and state level. How? Below are the ways to become an advocate for kids with cancer.
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. ACCO’s first success to reduce this disparity occurred in Kentucky through the passing of legislation resulting in Kentucky’s first appropriation for childhood cancer research. Since then, ACCO has been successful in securing legislation and associated appropriations for childhood cancer research in Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. As ACCO continues to spread this success across the country, ACCO’s goal — and the goal of “What About Kids?®” — 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.
With the largest grassroots advocacy network in the country, we are here to support and provide data for your elected officials to understand how childhood cancer impacts families where you are. If you would like to get involved, get in touch with us:
Ruth I. Hoffman MPH, Chief Executive Officer rhoffman@acco.org
Jessica Beckstrand, Director, “What About Kids?®” 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. Over the last two 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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Follow & Share on Social Media
In our minds, advocacy is just a fancy word for storytelling to those who have the power to cast a vote. 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!
