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ACS and the NFL are improving cancer outcomes through Crucial Catch

Getting screened is crucial to catching cancer early, when it may be easier to treat. Through Crucial Catch, the American Cancer Society and the NFL have worked together to improve cancer outcomes by supporting more than 840,000 cancer screenings and impacting more than 1.9 million lives since 2012. While educating fans about the importance of cancer screening, early detection, and risk reduction, the initiative also raises funds for CHANGE grants that help community health centers and NFL-affiliated or in-market hospitals in under-resourced areas increase access to cancer screening.  

ACS and the NFL recently shared the Crucial Catch’s 2025 CHANGE grant recipients. These 64 funded projects leverage various resources to expand access to breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate cancer screening in NFL markets. In 2024, Crucial Catch projects impacted 281 participating clinic sites from 33 health systems, reached more than 183,000 eligible patients, diagnosed 1,466 cancers, and helped to increase cancer screening rates by an average of 2.9 percentage points. 

“Addressing gaps in cancer screening and encouraging fans to get screened has played an essential role in our work to improve cancer outcomes nationwide,” said Chief Patient Officer Dr. Arif Kamal. “Funding tailored services on the local level allows us to collaborate with communities to provide the specific assistance they need, while the NFL’s broad reach educates on the importance of prevention and cancer screening.” 

How the initiative comes alive 

Through the sale of Crucial Catch-branded merchandise, NFL auctions, and general fundraising, the NFL has raised $35 million to support the American Cancer Society’s work to save lives by encouraging early detection since 2009. This year, Crucial Catch games will activate both on and off the field during NFL games through Oct. 19. These games will feature an array of in-game visuals such as Crucial Catch game balls, goal post wraps, and field-wall banners, branded on-field equipment for players, coaches, and officials, among other activations, to make the initiative come alive in-stadium.   

Novartis supports education and screening 

As an official partner of Crucial Catch, Novartis will take the initiative off the field to empower proactive health decisions and help more people detect cancer early by bringing educational resources, tools, and knowledge directly into local communities throughout the U.S. In addition, as part of its multi-year partnership with the NFL, Novartis is donating $5 million to the American Cancer Society during the next five seasons, where funds will support expanded education and critical cancer screening efforts in under-resourced communities. 

Ambassadors amplify the mission 

Through the Crucial Ca​tch and American Cancer Society Player Ambassador program, 19 NFL players with a personal tie to cancer will also amplify Crucial Catch's mission and vision through appearances, fundraising campaigns, and social media awareness campaigns. 

How you can help 

The NFL-funded grants are part of more than 130 projects funded by the American Cancer Society that focus on improving cancer screening rates in communities with the greatest need. Visit NFL.com/CrucialCatch to find local cancer screening resources and learn how to reduce cancer risk. 

  • Executive Circle of CEOs Against Cancer convenes in Atlanta

    In late July, the Executive Circle of CEOs Against Cancer convened in Atlanta, GA, for its inaugural in-person national meeting. This gathering brought together chapter leaders from across the country with the goal of:

    • Empowering and energizing volunteer leaders
    • Celebrating the collective impact of CEOs Against Cancer
    • Exploring new avenues for growth
    • Strengthening connections across our national network
    • Collaborating as thought partners to shape the future

    “The spirit of bold thinking and deep collaboration made this national meeting truly meaningful," said Tonya Addy, strategic director, Executive Engagement. “Conversations centered around leadership, purpose, and growth laid a strong foundation for what's ahead – and reaffirmed our shared commitment to driving progress together."

    CEOs Against Cancer is a unique group of more than 300 influential executives committed to their companies and communities. With 19 active chapters nationwide, members collaborate and leverage their influence to raise awareness and funding to help us end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

    President of Aflac and Executive Circle member Virgil Miller shared that that helping drive better cancer outcomes is personal, as is spreading the word about the importance of screenings and checkups to increase early detection. It's good for business and the greater community and underscored that there is strength in numbers. “None of us is as great as the sum of us," said Miller. “When we come together to collaborate and network, we can make a difference."
    The Executive Circle was successfully piloted among five CEOs Against Cancer chapters in 2023-2024 – raising more than $1 million through a single, coordinated mission effort – and has now expanded to include all chapter chairs in 2025.

    To learn more, visit CEOs Against Cancer online or contact CEOsAgainstCancer@cancer.org.

  • Discovery Shops celebrate 60 years 🎉

    More than 60 years ago, an American Cancer Society volunteer named Denise Noel had a bold idea: What if a thrift store could be more than just a secondhand shop? What if it offered high-quality, beautifully curated merchandise, and used the net proceeds to fight cancer?

    In 1965, Denise opened the very first American Cancer Society Thrift Store in the San Fernando Valley in California. It was a radical concept at the time – quality and thrift didn't usually go hand in hand. But, thanks to her vision, passion, and determination, that little shop started something big.

    The idea quickly caught on. Volunteers across California stepped up, opened stores, and gave each location a personality of its own with creative names like "Nice Twice" and "Just a Second." In the 1980s, a new name took hold –Discovery Shop. With  it came a clear identity, resale with purpose, community at heart, and guaranteed quality.

    Since that first shop opened, Discovery Shops have raised more than $372 million to support the American Cancer Society's mission. Today, there are 59 shops nationwide. While each has its own local flavor, all are united by one common goal: to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families.

    One Million Strong and Growing

    Every year, more than a million people walk through the doors of a Discovery Shop. They come from every walk of life and every background – and they all leave knowing they're part of something bigger.

    Together, we're supporting survivors. We're fueling breakthroughs. We're fighting cancer, one donation, one purchase, and one volunteer hour at a time. We are the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop, and we thank you for 60 years of support.

    Become Part of Our Story

    We invite you to shop, donate, or volunteer because every action helps us move closer to ending cancer as we know it, for everyone.

  • Fuel the Hope for Change campaign is raising funds for ACS throughout July

    The nationwide convenience store retailer EG America is teaming up with the American Cancer Society for the annual Fuel the Hope For Change campaign to raise money for patient support programs and research.

    Throughout July, guests at all EG America-operated convenience stores can donate $1, $5, or an amount of their choosing towards the American Cancer Society. Last year, EG America raised more than $645,000 through its in-store fundraiser.

    “Our partnership with EG America has generated more than $2.3 million in donations for critical programs and services," said Sarah Wells, executive vice president of the American Cancer Society. “This outcome is a direct reflection of EG America and their loyal customers' steadfast commitment to ending cancer as we know it and improving life for every patient."

    The EG America network has 1,500 stores across the country where customers can choose to participate and support the mission of the American Cancer Society in July:

    • Cumberland Farms (MA, CT, RI, NY, NH, ME, VT, FL)
    • Certified Oil (OH, WV, KY)
    • Fastrac Cafe (Upstate NY)
    • Kwik Shop (IA, KS, NE)
    • Loaf'N Jug (CO, MT, ND, NE, NM, SD, WY)
    • Minit Mart (IL, KS, KY, MN, MI, OH, TN, WI)
    • QuikStop (CA, NV)
    • Tom Thumb (AL, FL, MI, TN)
    • Turkey Hill (IN, OH, PA)​

  • Teaming up for cancer patients

    ​In partnership with the National Hockey League (NHL) and the National Hockey League Players Association (NHLPA), ACS continues to drive impact and bring support to cancer patients and their caregivers through the Hockey Fights Cancer™ initiative and its extension, Hockey Fights Cancer Assist. This powerful collaboration supports ACS patient programs like Hope Lodge and Road to Recovery. One of the most impactful activations of this partnership is the NHL Stanley Cup® Hope Lodge Tour, which brings the iconic trophy to Hope Lodge locations in NHL markets. Throughout the regular season, the tour delivered unforgettable moments of joy, resilience, and community to patients, caregivers, and team members —from Philadelphia to Salt Lake City—by connecting them with hockey legends, mascots, and the magic of the Stanley Cup®. These visits not only celebrate the spirit of the game but also reinforce the mission to bring comfort and hope to those facing cancer. As the Stanley Cup® Final approaches, we look back at tour highlights from the 2024-2025 season:

    Philadelphia, PA (pictured above, top right)

    Philadelphia Flyers alumni Joe and Jim Watson joined guests for dinner, photos, and a community raffle, creating a warm and personal experience. A special visit to Fox Chase Cancer Center allowed patients and team members to share meaningful moments with the Stanley Cup®.

    Boston, MA (pictured above, top left)

    Guests enjoyed a Bruins watch party, a raffle, and photo opportunities all centered around the Stanley Cup®, with members of the local media present. In addition, local high school hockey players from Bridgewater-Raynham served lunch, adding a heartfelt community touch.

    Tampa, FL (pictured above, middle left)

    Unique photo opportunities, the Lightning mascot, ThunderBug, and NHL and NHLPA swag brought laughter and excitement, while cozy gift blankets offered comfort to Hope Lodge guests in Tampa.​​​

    Salt Lake City, UT (pictured above, middle right)

    The Stanley Cup® visit aligned with the Utah Hockey Club’s inaugural season, energizing both hospital and Lodge communities. Visitors had the opportunity to watch the Utah Hockey Club, now known as the Utah Mammoth, take on the Montréal Canadiens and enjoy dinner and games.

    St. Louis, MO (pictured above, bottom row)

    The Stanley Cup® returned to St. Louis in celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Worldwide Technology St. Louis Hope Lodge, which included a private evening for Hope Lodge guests at the St. Louis Aquarium, featuring NHL guests and community leaders. In addition, a reception for St. Louis alumni from the AEPi Fraternity at Mizzou helped build momentum for the fraternity’s Rock-A-Thon fundraiser.​​

  • Discovery Shops celebrate excellence with 2024 Denise Noel Awards

    ​Recently, the American Cancer Society Discovery Shop team celebrated and honored store managers, volunteers, and shops for their outstanding contributions to the Discovery Shop program in 2024.  This year the Denise Noel awards were expanded to include leaders that have made significant impacts, including Rising Star Manager and Shop of the Year.

    Congratulations to the following 2024 award winners!

    Denise Noel Manager & Shop of the Year

    • Winner: Ann-Marie Farrell
    • Discovery Shop: Overlake, WA (pictured above)

    Rising Star Manager & Shop of the Year

    Designated for shops open for business less than three years.

    • Winner: Alexis Spencer
    • Discovery Shop: Oceanside, CA ​

    Denise Noel Volunteer Leader of the Year 

    Awarded to five exceptional volunteers across the country who are nominated by each Discovery Shop region.

    • East (Iowa, Michigan, Ohio & Virginia): Wade Leaman, Chardon, OH (pictured at right, right)
    • Pacific Northwest (Northern California & Washington): Brenda Fisk, Chico, CA (pictured at right, left)
    • Northern Coastal (California): Laura Najm, Pleasanton, CA
    • Desert Coastal (California): Alice Harris, Upland, CA
    • Great Valley (California): Barbara Jones, Encino, CA

    Award Background

    The Denise Noel Awards honor the legacy of Denise Noel, who founded the first Discovery Shop in San Fernando, CA, in 1965 after her family was touched by cancer. Her vision and dedication led to the creation of a 60-location chain of upscale resale shops operated by ACS. Denise's pursuit of excellence and commitment to supporting the mission of ACS continue to inspire our volunteers. This award is presented annually to individuals or groups in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Discovery Shop program.

    The American Cancer Society celebrates these remarkable individuals and their dedication to making a difference! To find a Discovery Shop store near you, or shop online via eBay, visit cancer.org. 

  • Gordy’s Give Back Day shatters expectations

    On May 1, the Relay For Life community rallied nationwide for Gordy’s Give Back Day, a 24-hour fundraising push honoring Dr. Gordy Klatt and 40 years of Relay For Life. With an ambitious goal of $400,000 (and a stretch goal of $540,000), volunteers didn’t just rise to the challenge – they exceeded it, raising an incredible $651,670 in just one day.

    “This day reminded us that cancer cannot cripple love, it cannot shatter hope, and it cannot conquer the spirit,” said Becky VanLoon, national volunteer lead, Relay For Life. “Our community showed the same passion, grit, and heart that lit the first track 40 years ago. That spark is still burning bright.”

    Leading the Way: East Valley, AZ

    The Relay For Life of East Valley, AZ topped the charts with a staggering $140,140 raised—the most of any participating event. Event Lead Laura Deppert credited longtime donors and a deep commitment to the cause. “Their passion for finding a cure continues to inspire all of us,” she shared.

    One major driver of East Valley’s success was a $40,000 donation secured by leadership volunteer Gina Romero. “It felt like the perfect moment to reignite our fundraising,” said Gina. “Doing it in honor of Gordy’s legacy made it especially meaningful.” Their efforts will help fund an American Cancer Society Hero of Research grant for Dr. Nicole Jimenez, an Arizona-based gynecologic cancer researcher.​

    Top 10 Events Based on Funds Raised

    More than 460 Relay For Life events participated across the country. Here are the top 10:

    1. East Valley, AZ – $140,140
    2. Sumner Portland, TN – $26,871
    3. Eugene-Springfield, OR – $23,975
    4. Blair, PA – $23,129
    5. Bakersfield, CA – $21,267
    6. Farmington Valley, CT – $15,566
    7. East Central CT – $15,441
    8. Bell County, TX – $12,633
    9. Santa Clarita Valley, CA – $10,107
    10. Peninsula, VA – $8,055​​

    Celebrating Momentum, Honoring a Legacy

    Gordy’s Give Back Day wasn’t just a fundraising milestone—it was a powerful demonstration of what makes Relay For Life so unique. It united hundreds of communities behind a common purpose, reminded us of the heart that fuels our mission, and proved that together, we are unstoppable.

    For more information or to find an event near you, visit RelayForLife.org.

  • Fit2BeCancerFree Employee Challenge raises $933,025

    ​The ACS Fit2BeCancerFree Employee Challenge concluded April 24 with over 1,699,500,000 steps tracked and more than $933,000 in donations. Approximately 18,200 participants joined the virtual step tracking challenge, which was open to all companies and CEOs and encouraged employers to rally colleagues, friends, and communities to get active in support of our work to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.

    Through the MoveSpring app, the employee challenge participants experienced a virtual journey that encouraged steps each day, engaged employees with ACS through motivational milestones, and helped to raise funds for our mission. Congratulations and many thanks to the 2025 challenge winners in the following categories:  

    National Employee Challenge Winner (most distance accrued): McKesson with a total of 159,441 miles.

    Mission Impact Winner (most dollars raised): Freestone Capital Management with $60,025 raised.

    Highest Average Participation (highest average distance per participant): Acquis Consulting with an average of 6.23 miles per participant per day.

    Fit2BeCancerFree kicked off on April 10 with the 24-hour CEO challenge, followed by the two-week Employee Challenge. The final leaderboard for all participating CEOs and organizations can be found at cancer.org/fit2be.

  • Inaugural Artist of the Year Contest launches!

    To celebrate how the emotions of art can tell a story and inspire, the inaugural American Cancer Society Artist of the Year Contest launches on World Art Day, April 15! This contest, created as a unique annual stewardship opportunity, calls for artists from all disciplines to create a custom piece of art and personal statement showcasing how cancer has impacted them. Artists should submit their work by June 30 to be considered for the first-ever American Cancer Society Artist of the Year!

    We need your help to make this contest a success! Please use this communications toolkit to reach out to your partners, volunteers, and donors to encourage them to submit a piece and spread the word. In this toolkit, you’ll find an email template, two graphics, and social copy for X/Twitter and Facebook (you cannot post contests on LinkedIn).

    Help us create a memorable moment for a talented artist. Their work will be mass distributed to our donor base as a collector item in various forms to be used for your continued stewardship of supporters across the organization.

    Questions?

    Contact the stewardship team at stewardship@cancer.org.
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