Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is a powerful time to come together and raise crucial funds for pediatric cancer research, support programs, and initiatives. If you’re passionate about making a difference and eager to contribute to this important cause, we’ve compiled a list of fundraising opportunities available in both the US and the UK. Whether you’re an individual, a family, or part of a larger community, these initiatives offer a range of avenues to support children battling cancer.
1. Gamers (UK)
Game Changers is an initiative run by Children with Cancer UK. It is a great way to get children and young people involved in fundraising. The ultimate challenge is to game for 12 hours but this can be adapted to suit.
https://www.childrenwithcancer.org.uk/how-you-can-help/fundraising/gaming/
2. Runners (UK/US)
There are so many running events to choose from, no matter where in the world you are based. For runners in the US, we are sponsors of Head for the Cure and they are hosting a number of different 5K events: https://headforthecure.org/foundation/events
If you can’t manage 5K (or want to run a longer distance), the Million Miles 2023 initiative is completely flexible. You can choose whether to run, walk or cycle. The goal is to collectively move a million miles this September.
3. Bakers (UK)
The Big Bake 2023 is literally about raising dough (a pun we borrowed from the Brain Tumour Charity who run this initiative). The charity provide lots of resources, such as popular recipes, downloadable posters, bake labels and other handy bits and pieces to help promote your bake. You can also win prizes if you raise more than £350.
Find out more here: https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/get-involved/big-bake/
4. Hairdressers (UK/US)
Did you know you can donate hair for wigs? There are plenty of organisations who create wigs for people who have lost their own hair through cancer. So, whether you are a hairdressing interested in hosting a cut-a-thon or an individual interested in a solo one-off cut, there are many organisations you can work. For example, Wigs for Kids in the US or Little Princesses in the UK.
5. Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (US)
Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation encourages individuals to host lemonade stands to raise funds for pediatric cancer research. This initiative, inspired by Alex Scott’s bold spirit, has become a symbol of hope, with lemonade stands popping up across the country during September. https://www.alexslemonade.org/
6. Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (UK)
Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) Charity fundraises to support the work of one of the UK’s leading children’s hospitals. Throughout Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, they organize various campaigns, such as Bake it Better and the Race for the Kids, where individuals can get involved and make a difference. https://www.gosh.org/get-involved/
7. Children with Cancer UK (UK)
Children with Cancer UK is dedicated to funding innovative research studies to improve survival rates and develop better treatments for children fighting cancer. During this important month, the organization encourages supporters to get creative by organizing events, challenges, or even joining fundraising runs to help raise funds and awareness. https://www.childrenwithcancer.org.uk/
8. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (US)
St. Jude is a renowned research hospital that focuses on finding cures for pediatric cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Supporters can participate in programs like St. Jude Walk/Run, or engage in DIY initiatives where they can create personalized fundraising events to support the hospital’s mission. https://www.stjude.org/get-involved.html
9. Macmillan Cancer Support (UK)
While Macmillan Cancer Support primarily focuses on adult cancer care, they provide invaluable support to families and children affected by cancer. Whether you choose to host a fundraising coffee morning, participate in a golf day, or create a virtual fundraiser, Macmillan offers a variety of opportunities for individuals to contribute to the cause. https://www.macmillan.org.uk/fundraise
10. PJammin® for Kids Cancer (US)
PJammin® is a unique fundraising initiative where individuals wear pajamas to school or work to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer. Through PJammin® events, participants can encourage donations and educate others about the importance of supporting children battling cancer. https://www.acco.org/pjammin/
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month provides a poignant reminder of the courageous children fighting cancer and the urgent need for continued support. By getting involved in these diverse fundraising opportunities, you can play an active role in changing lives and bringing hope to affected families. Remember, no contribution is too small, as collective efforts can make a significant impact on research, support, and ultimately, the fight against childhood cancer. Together, let’s raise awareness, fund research, and make a lasting difference!