Who We Are and What We Do
A leading voice in the young adult cancer movement, we are working at a grassroots level to support, educate, connect and empower young adult cancer survivors. Since inception in 1997, we have been working tirelessly at both the community level and with our national partners to raise awareness of the young adult cancer issue and ensure all young adults and families impacted by cancer have a voice and the resources necessary to thrive. Our work over the years and to present day is guided by both our mission, vision and values and priorities and goals set forth within our strategic plan.
{our mission}
We enhance lives by supporting, educating and connecting young adults, and their loved ones, affected by cancer.
{our vision}
We envision a world in which all young adults affected by cancer will have the access to resources necessary to thrive.
{our values}
The UCF’s work is built on the belief that every young adult diagnosed with cancer deserves hope and support. The values that guide the daily work with young adults as well as the long-term organizational planning include:
- Collaboration. Ongoing cooperation and idea and resource sharing will lead to the best possible outcomes for young adults living with cancer and their families. Collaborators include medical providers, the patient advocate world, nonprofit organizations, and private entities, as well as government agencies, community members, individual patients, and the institutions that care for them.
- Perseverance. Every obstacle can be overcome with determination, hard work, and resourcefulness. The UCF’s organizational efforts serve as a model for young people during the greatest challenge of their lives.
- Integrity. Every donation and dollar spent will be used in the most efficient and effective way.
- Compassion. All young adults living with cancer, and their loved ones, deserve to be treated with a concern and sensitivity that reflects the unique medical and emotional
issues that they face.
{our strategic plan}
HOPE . FIGHT . THRIVE: 2008 – 2013
In early 2008, the UCF finalized and published a five year strategic plan. Incorporating participation and input from a broad group of stakeholders – volunteers, donors, community members, board, staff and young adult survivors – the plan will provide a framework for the organization to accomplish its mission and vision over the next five years. Implementation is in progress in we invite you to download a copy of the plan and check in with us on the status of our work.
Download a pdf version: