Three reasons why you should support cancer charities

Hotly contested as one of the most widely funded charity sectors, there are many different charities for the many different types of cancers.

Here are three reasons why you should support them. Whether that may be with your time, donations, or moral support, this is how you could make a difference.

1. Prevention

Prevention of cancer, in particular prevention of secondary cancers, is an area that receives sparse time and resources. Clinicians simply do not have the time for extensive preventative education. This falls down to health policy and practice. By being involved with a cancer charity, by knowing about it, talking about it, thinking about it, you are creating awareness. Being a part of a wide community, passionate about the advancement of health care and survival in cancer can instil positivity and create a force to drive change. This positivity may be felt not only by you, but by those around you and ultimately may influence policy. By being a positive part of a bigger picture, and wanting to see a different future for cancer, you can be a pioneer and a change agent.

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2. Research

Without research, there can be no progression in cancer treatments. New and innovative approaches to cancer research are important for advancements in understanding and improving cancer pathways. Research doesn’t always begin and end with drugs. Ensuring early detection and diagnosis, identifying risk factors in diet and lifestyle choices are all part and parcel of researching cancer. Although some may think the cancer pot is full of money, remember, research is cumulative. Research is bound to sometimes fail, and it is these failures that can influence and inspire new routes and ideas into cancer treatments. Research is not finite or determined, but it is hopeful. By donating money or time, and helping to build up the profiles of smaller charities too, you can influence larger corporate donations that might propagate larger or longer trials. Secure and reliable income for cancer charities is essential in ensuring continued research.

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3. Morale

Supporting a charity, local or national, can help you get more involved in your community and boost your morale. Volunteering your time in person or remotely can be something that fits your lifestyles and needs, and can be as little or as much as you would like. Donating your skills and expertise can really make a difference to a charity in need and you too can reap the benefits. Being part of a big team of support can make a huge difference for people affected by cancer.

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Cancer is growing. It is widely known that everyone will be affected by cancer in one way or another in their lifetime. Be the difference you want to see in the world, and consider supporting a cancer charity in any way that suits you.

How Are Cancer Cells Different?

From one to a hundred trillion cells, cells in the body multiply at an extreme level. With a number so high in count, sometimes things can go wrong.

Cancer cells are the result. Or rather, a mutation. This happens when a cell does not correctly form.

Standing alone a cancer cell seems harmless, but their ability to reproduce at a phenomenal rate can be deadly.

To dive further, click the link below to hear Ted-Ed discuss how the cells behave differently.

http://ed.ted.com/lessons/how-do-cancer-cells-behave-differently-from-healthy-ones-george-zaidan

 

Written by Jacob Lundy

Wrapping up April – Testicular Cancer Awareness Month

First off, thank you for your support in the FCancer Project and the fight against all forms of cancers.

April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month. In case you missed it, here are some things to know for the month of April in 2018.

What is the color for testicular cancer?

Orchid is recognized as the color for testicular cancer. Orchid is a purple-like color.

What does the purple ribbon for cancer stand for?

Purple symbolizes testicular cancer, but it also represents pancreatic and thyroid cancer.

How can I get involved with the cause?

Testicular Cancer Society:

http://www.testicularcancersociety.org/index.html

Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation:

http://www.testicularcancerawarenessfoundation.org/

The FCancer Project:

https://fcancer.org/volunteer/dashboard

 

 

Written by Jacob Lundy

 

Co-Founder of FCancer is Honoured by Prime Minister

FCancer has been recognised for pairing volunteers with charities on a global scale. Co-founder of the ‘FCancer’ initiative Sal Lahound was honoured by Prime Minister Theresa May for creating an online platform that connects skilled volunteers with cancer-related charities.

A press release by the UK Points of Light reads:

PM recognises entrepreneurial volunteer pairing volunteers with charities

Prime Minister Theresa May has honoured a volunteer from the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea making it easier for skilled volunteers to find cancer charities in need of help.
Sal Lahoud co-founded the ‘FCancer’ initiative after tragically losing his father to cancer. The innovative microvolunteering project pairs up people looking to donate their professional skills with cancer charities in need of support. 170 cancer charities post adverts on the FCancer website, with volunteers responding by pledging the number of hours they can dedicate to the cause.

Sal, who set up the project along with five close friends who all had a family member affected by cancer, has created a fully-integrated technology platform to automatically match the best projects to the skills of the volunteer. There are almost 9500 volunteers signed up to the initiative with around 100 new volunteers joining each week. Recent examples of successful collaborations have included designers creating information posters and animators producing adverts.

Sal is the latest recipient of a Point of Light award, which recognises outstanding individual volunteers, people who are making a change in their community and inspiring others. Each day, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements.

In a personal letter to Sal, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Your innovative initiative makes it easy for people to volunteer their professional skills by letting them pledge the number of hours they are able to donate. As a result cancer charities are able to access valuable skills to improve their impact and thousands of volunteers are giving back in a more meaningful way. Your work is changing lives and is a wonderful tribute to your father’s memory.”

Sal said:
“I am honoured to accept this award on behalf of FCancer. Our mission from the start was to create a fun and efficient way for volunteers to get involved in the fight against cancer. Building the FCancer platform into an easy-to-use technology platform that connects skilled volunteers with charity projects needing their expertise has been an eye-opening and rewarding experience for all of us. We would like to thank the UK government and the PM for supporting our effort – these initiatives do wonders for morale and give us more visibility. Thank you for encouraging young people to pursue opportunities in non-profit sectors.”

Sal is the 716th winner of the Points of Light award which has been developed in partnership with the hugely successful Points of Light programme in the USA and was first established by President George H. W. Bush. Over 5,000 US Points of Light have been awarded and both President George H. W. Bush and President Barack Obama publically supported the partnership with Points of Light UK when it was launched in 2014, which honours shining examples of volunteering across the country.

Regardless of whether it’s a doctor restoring local monuments in her free time, a father teaching young people life skills, or a local musician giving a voice to lonely people, the Point of Light award honours shining examples of volunteering across the UK.

Sal created FCancer alongside friends Oren Bass, Noor Fares, Petra Palumbo, Karim Lahoud and Victoria Brooks in 2012.

Website: pointsoflight.gov.uk

 

 

Written by Jacob Lundy

Activism: Debunking the Myths

An activist is an individual who campaigns for social change.

When I first was introduced to this definition, I was taken off-guard by it. When we think of an activist, we tend to believe they are the ones on television. I have dreamed of being an inspiration in my community, but I felt like becoming an activist was an impossible goal to achieve. So, I did what anyone who wants to learn more nowadays would do. I went on the internet to do some research on what it means to be an activist. Despite what I previous thought, I discovered some major myths regarding activism.

1. Activists are elitists

We think of activism, and its influencers, as “The Greats.” From MLK and Rosa Parks to John Lennon and Neil Young, we see activists as people of great importance. Perhaps this notion of them being better than us can make us lose faith in becoming one of the inspirations of our time.

Here is the truth: Everyday ordinary people doing courageous acts is activism.

That is right, the actions made by “average” citizens make them activists. I believe a vital aspect of creating a movement is one individual knowing their capabilities. Imagine a world where everyone felt strongly about a cause and pursued it without the worries of failure. This would create activism as the norm.

2. Activists are violent

Although there are diverse viewpoints on the methods to create real change, activists are not violent people. Nor do activists willingly create it. Quite the contrary because these individuals work to prevent harm to society. In fact, one of the utmost tactic ways of making a statement is without violence. This strategy is probably best known from Martin Luther King Jr.

3. Activism is pointless

With opposition in society, it can feel like a futile effort to pursue a cause. This notion is especially not true. Throughout time, individuals have stood up to all the cruelness of the world to change the shape of our future, and it is only through these daring movements that can make us believe in our world. This myth leads to the last one I would like to debunk.

4. One person cannot make a difference

In fact, it is only one person that can and will make a difference. The initiation of one ordinary person who makes a stance creates followers. Not all movements have to be big. I believe in all battles that must be fought, both small and large.

Now you know that becoming an activist is easier than you thought. I encourage you to find your cause and make a change in our world because activism starts with you.

Written by Jacob Lundy

Technology Leveraged for Good — — Harnessing the Power of Tech.

How are non-profits using #Tech4Good?

Technology has become part of our everyday lives. From social media to smart cars, technological advances are making our lives easier and far more connected. And whether we like it or not, technology is here to stay…

Well, I didn’t like it.

I loathed Tech. It overwhelmed me, and I just couldn’t convince myself to give in. But when I jumped into the non-profit world, everything changed. I realized it could do more for us than share who’s the hottest celebrity via Twitter (Chris Pratt obviously), and I became rather curious with this question in mind.

How can technology be utilized for social change?

I did some research to answer the question above, and I discovered how non-profits are using #Tech4Good,

Here’s what I found…

StreetLink

StreetLink is a mobile app, website, and helpline working 24/7 to help connect the general public with the homeless. The app captures the location of the individual in need and communicates the information to local authorities in real-time. This groundbreaking technology through our mobile devices has aided thousands of people in England and Wales.

Charity Water

Charity Water uses 100% of public donations to fund water projects for communities around the world. To give donors a satisfaction of progress for their social movement, they prove each completed project using GPS coordinates on Google Maps. And through their virtual reality film, The Source, they shared a surreal experience for over 10,000 individuals to see their cause come to life.

FCancer

FCancer wants to connect people possessing exceptional skills with cancer charities all over the world in need of services. With their elegant web design, they make it easy for volunteers to connect. Whether creating a marketing strategy, taking professional pictures, or writing a blog (like myself), FCancer has created a new form of charitable currency.

Want to be a part of this incredible #TechMovement? Check out these fresh resources to get involved!

Technology is the backbone for progression in our non-profits. It’s time to embrace it.

Written by Jacob Lundy

Bad Day? These Simple Beauty Routines Will Lift your Spirits

Everyone has a bad day once in a while and we can all be triggered off by something different. If you are ticked off by something which happened in your day, simply woke up on the wrong side of the bed or struggle with your feelings, making a few personal decisions can help turn your day around.

If you are feeling bad on the inside, making positive changes on the outside can bring you back from your slump. Simple beauty routines or self-care tasks can keep you distracted, increase your positive energy and help you take a few steps forward with your day.

Whether you are stuck in a rut with your self-care, don’t bother too much with it or love to change up your look each day we have some simple ideas to turn that frown upside down!

1. Get Clean:

First things first, get yourself in the shower. If you are having a real bad day or wake up feeling grumpy, this could be the furthest from your mind (we know all about that feeling of wanting to jump back under the bed covers!) however spending a few minutes in the shower and regulating the water from hot to cold will start to wake you up mentally and ‘metaphorically’ start to help you cleanse away the negativity. Focus on washing one part of your body at a time after the temperate has settled and treat its some pamper time.

2. Protect your skin:

Your skin is your body’s biggest organ, so have a think about what you put on to it! An easy part of a beauty routine is a choosing a product of your choice to protect your skin. Some may go for a cleanser and one more product, but if you feel that washing your face in the shower is enough for your routine — go with that and just pick one to follow up with. Protecting your skin with a moisturizer, face oil or balm will keep your skin feeling soft, smooth and looking healthy.

Part of the fun of finding the right skincare for you is testing out what feels good on your skin and what smells awaken your senses. If you do not know where to start, next time you are department store make the most of their testers. Many shops will have their skincare lines available to try first. Have fun, feel the different textures on your hands and inhale the different scents — find a favorite and get into the habit of using it day and night.

If you have particularly sensitive skin, try a natural and organic skincare range — they will typically have less ingredients in their formulations and will be free from harsh chemicals and preservatives.

3. Choose your best feature:

Step three in your pick me up routine is to highlight your favorite feature. If you enjoy wearing make up but your feelings are preventing you from picking up the blusher brush, this is absolutely fine. Pick one feature you want to concentrate on and go from there. For example if you like your eyes frame them with a coating of mascara, or select your favorite color eye shadow and dust your lids. One product can be as effective as 10 when you’re consciously making the decision to look after yourself. Or if you love to pucker and pout, dig out your best red lippie and make just the lips your statement for the day.

If make up is not your thing, reacquaint yourself with your favorite fragrance. Smells can evoke strong emotional reactions and if can connect this smell with something positive, it’ll be there all day to remind you and keep you lifted.

These steps can take as little or as long as you like. By feeling refreshed and clean, making the conscious decision to look after your skin and picking something positive about your appearance you have already made small decisions on turning your day, or week, around. If none of this makes sense to you then at the very, very least you can do, is smile :).

 

Written by Emily Venables

 

Testicular Cancer Society Giving 20 Easy Ways to Get Involved

Testicular cancer is more common than you may think. In fact, it is said to be the most common form of cancer for men who are between the ages of 15 – 35.

Unfortunately, too many men are not educated about testicular cancer or aware of the need for self-testicular exams. Testicular cancer is highly treatable if caught early but the lack of awareness leads to diagnosis at later stages when treatments are not as effective. – Testicular Cancer Society

Have you or someone you know been the victim of testicular cancer? If so, then check out these 20 easy ways to get involved, created by the Testicular Cancer Society

1. Join our B.A.L.L. Team a fun and exclusive advocacy platform and really help make a difference.
2. Choose the Testicular Cancer Society as your Charity on Amazon Smile and Amazon will donate to our mission every time you shop.
3. Sign Up for our Newsletter. We promise not to blow up your inbox.
4. Download our Ball Checker App for self exam instructions and reminders. Ball Checker iOS or Ball Checker Android. A review of the app would be a huge help too.
5. Join our Testicular Cancer Support Forums and help others facing the disease.
6. “Like” our Testicular Cancer Society page on Facebook.
7. “Follow” the Testicular Cancer Society on Twitter.
8. Do you have a Blog? Blog about us and link to our site.
9. Write a review of us on GreatNonpofits so that everyone can learn about your experience with us.
10. Read the Testicular Cancer Society Blog. Leave comments and post us to your favorite social websites.
11. Add the Testicular Cancer Society Blog to your RSS Feed.
12. Email your friends and family and tell them about us.
13. Add “I support the Testicular Cancer Society” to your email signatures.
14. Use GoodShop and support the Testicular Cancer Society & every time you shop, search and dine we receive a donation.
15. Subscribe to the Testicular Cancer Society YouTube channel.
16. Link with the Testicular Cancer Society founder on LinkedIn which will help us for networking.
17. Follow the Testicular Cancer Society on LinkedIn
18. eBay? Donate a portion of your sale or find items that support our mission. eBay for the Testicular Cancer Society.
19. Tell every man that you see that, “According to the Testicular Cancer Society, you need to be doing self-testicular exams.”
20. Mention to your company and local businesses that they should support the Testicular Cancer Society.

For more information, go to their website at http://www.testicularcancersociety.org/

 

Written by Jacob Lundy

5 Hidden Benefits of Volunteering

Have you ever considered volunteering but were stuck with where to start? Or didn’t know what you fancied doing with your time?

Volunteering now is just as much about helping out someone else as it is about developing yourself. Long gone the days of hours spent doing something you weren’t interested in because you felt you had too. There are so many doors open to volunteers nowadays, whether you’re a creative type, love meeting people face to face, want something more hands on or simply have a few hours spare in the evening there is something out there for you!

You might ask: But what will I get out of it?

We hear you! Well, apart from the satisfaction of helping an organization or person in need of your time or skills, there are many benefits for the volunteer themselves. How does all of this sound…?

1. Learn or develop a new skill

Volunteering as part of a program or a stepping into a new industry can expose you to a range of activities and skills you may not have had to use in your day to day life. Skills such as communication, team work, using your initiative, problem solving, planning and organizing may just make you stand out from the crowd when you need to most!

2. You can make a difference to someone’s day

Whether you are tasked with something small or you are making big changes, you could really be helping change the life of some one else. It could be through helping organize an event to raise money or simply making someone smile — you never know, you could go out and make someone’s day simply by turning up and giving a helping hand.

3. Be part of a community of volunteers & meet new people

Help each other make a difference. Volunteering can enable you to meet new and different people from all walks of life, back grounds, ethnicity and interests that you may not usually have the opportunity to meet.

Volunteering is also the perfect platform to ease yourself into a new social situation, if you find yourself struggling to meet new people or find the whole situation a little daunting, every one you meet through volunteering is in the same boat looking to try and achieve similar goals to you! What a perfect starting place to branch out and make some new contacts.

4. Boost your career

Showing passion, motivation and initiative to go out and seek a cause you care enough about to volunteer for is a great way to get noticed. In a competitive job market, prospective employers are looking for someone who will go the extra mile to get what they want and voluntary work can help you get the experience you need. Employers are well aware of the commitment needed from volunteers and this should not go a miss once it has pride of place on your CV! No need to skip that part of the job application any more!

You may even feel more confident to tackle other tasks at work once you have gained more experience elsewhere!

5. Be happier!

Many studies have shown that volunteering can help people find perspective in their own life and combat feelings such as loneliness and depression. Join a community that can not only make other people feel happier, but help you improve your over all well being too.

Once you become more comfortable in your new role you may find your self-confidence increases too. The better you feel about yourself from helping others should have a positive effect on your own outlook of life.

The more you give, the happier you will feel! It’s in our nature!

What do our volunteers have to say?

“I think any charity work — large or small — gives you a warm feeling.”

F Cancer volunteer Mike McCoole has so far donated his help towards two charities as a graphic designer. His skills helped organizations, who did not have the funds or people power in house, achieve what they needed — this is where volunteering becomes so invaluable!

Why did Mike decide to volunteer?

“Like many people, I know too many effected by cancer; friends and family having suffered from cancer in its various disguises. Tragically, a lot of young lives amongst those numbers. Whilst I can’t afford to give monetary donations to every charity battling its own cause — I certainly can find a few hours a week to donate to these charities and help in anyway I can. After all, what I can do in a small amount of time for a charity, can go a long way to freeing up the good folk who work at these charities for awareness and money raising activities.”

Mike’s advice if you’re not quite convinced yet:

“Just go for it! Even if you’re skills don’t quite match up to what the charity required — you gave it a go. For aspiring creative and professionals, I would certainly offer as much as I could — charity work looks great on resumes/ CVs too.”

So, what have you got to lose?

Nothing, that’s what! Think of everything we have discussed above — making someone’s day, giving back to the community, meeting new people, learning a new skill, standing out from a competitive crowd, gaining a real sense of achievement, to name just a few! Even if you only experience one or two of these to start with, doesn’t that already make it worth it?

When it comes to volunteering passion and positivity are all that matters, everything else can be taught or given to you!

 

Written by Emily Venables

Ever Wonder Who’s Behind FCancer and Why? 🤔

We’ll here it is — the moment you’ve all been waiting for…

It’s nice to meet you! This is us, a group of people who think alike, who’ve all been touched in one way or another by cancer (as we are sure many of you out there have too)… so we decided to join our powerful skills and come up with a way to add our bit to the fight.

The result = Fcancer.org

We though, “Why not reach out to all the other awesome people out there with great #skills that cancer charities all over the world need?” and so that’s exactly what we did!

Listen to our full story on this video…

Here’s a little bio of the faces you’re going to see:

Sal: Founder

Oren: Founder

Julia: Project Manager

Noor: Founder

Karim: Project Manager

David: Marketing GURU

Edgar: IT genius

Ale: Community Manager (Me writing now!)

If you want to see more of our faces, you can check out our team bios here: https://fcancer.org/about/team

Written by the FCancer Project Team