The Journey
A newsletter for chapter advisors, chapter officers, and regional officers.

Join the Fight Against Cancer
Conquering cancer: A Prevention and Awareness Program with the American Cancer Society
By Jennifer Westbrook

Phi Theta Kappa has a long history of service that touches the lives of our youth. From AIDS Awareness to America Reads to America’s Promise... Phi Theta Kappans have for the past several years found themselves in a position of service that puts them eye-to-eye with a child.

Just as our commitment to young people didn’t begin two years ago, it certainly does not end now. As we look to a new partner and a new area of concern, it will be essential that our Conquering Cancer Service Program includes children as well as adults.

Unfortunately, no age group is immune to cancer.

Phi Theta Kappa’s partnership with the American Cancer Society for the next two years will provide opportunities of service in four key areas: educating others about cancer prevention; helping to raise funds for critical cancer research; providing service to those who are struggling with cancer; and becoming advocates for legislation that affects the lives of both current and future cancer patients.

The framework of the America’s Promise Service Program still applies to our two-year partnership with the American Cancer Society.

• We can still make ourselves available as a Caring Adult in the lives of those who are fighting cancer;
  
  
• We can help ensure that a cancer patient’s child has a Safe Place to go while he/she is undergoing treatment;
  
  
• As we learn more about cancer prevention, it can only strengthen our commitment to ensure a Healthy Start and Future for all children by helping them develop healthy diet and exercise habits now. It also will challenge each of us to adopt healthier lifestyles;
  
  
• We can help Teach children and people of all ages about the dangers of tobacco use and the importance of practicing sun safety;
  
  
• As we enlist in the fight against cancer, Phi Theta Kappans can do what we do best - set an example for others, young and old alike, to get involved in our service to the community.

Prevention

• Work with the American Cancer Society (ACS) to meet with school administrators to develop a comprehensive school health program.
  
  
• Meet with your college administration to discuss ways to make your campus a healthier environment - such as incorporating healthier foods in the cafeteria/vending machines, establishing a walking club, hosting forums on healthcare issues, etc.
  
  
• Make your campus smoke-free.

Fundraising

• Form a team for Relay for Life.
  
  
• Join Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.
  
  
• Participate in local events such as golf tournaments, Daffodil Days, parties.

Service

• Make a personal commitment to your own good health.
  
  
• Join the millions of other ACS volunteers in programs for cancer patients and community education.
  
  
• Promote the Great American Smokeout event in November.

Advocacy

• Join the ACS Action Network and get connected. Call 877.234.4484 or email acsaction@cancer.org.
  
  
• Meet with your elected officials to discuss ACS legislative priorities.
  
  
• Write a “Letter to the Editor.”

Chapters participating in the Conquering Cancer Service Program are asked to enroll as a Chapter of Service on Phi Theta Kappa's website at www.ptk.org/service/; or contact the Chapter Programs Department at chapter.programs@ptk.org or 601.984.3532.

For more information on American Cancer Society activities and programs in your community, log on to www.cancer.org. Call 800.ACS.2345 or contact Donna Scoggins at donna.scoggins@cancer.org or 404.329.7960

Copyright 1996-2002 by Phi Theta Kappa, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The name, logo and various titles have been registered with the U.S. Patent Office.

This page last modified -- Friday, 14-Nov-2003 11:00:22 CST (cwe)