Anmerican Cancer Society
Posted by smokedbacon  |  November 18, 2009 5:57:44 AM

Looking at the ACS Home Office 990 IRS return we can see where they btag about lobbying for funding for the CDC and the National Cancer Institute what they do not say is that they recieve grants from these Government Agencies in return! Can one say a conflict of interest? That is tax payers money!

cancer card
Posted by cmar  |  November 18, 2009 5:57:33 AM

To those who say ACS staf and volunteers "play the cancer card" hello it is who they are! Like any cause they promote it to raise money for it...Do you think Komen the breast cancer organization or Lance Armstrongs organization is anything different. They celebrate survivors and honor the departed in the Relay for Life..that is what it is for for goodness sake!

As far as CEO compensation....ACS raises over one billion dollars annually far more than most charities. It is a business and management talent is comenserate with its resources.

Gone are the days when non-profits hired less qualified talent, you get what you pay for and a good CEO's performance is based on high level goals and achievement. They earn what they get by making their organization more effective.

American Cancer Society
Posted by smokedbacon  |  November 18, 2009 5:51:24 AM

Although the CEO is making big bucks and the ACS gets our tax dollars as well some of the Consolidated Division Directors are making $500,000 a year!

ACS is a solid charity
Posted by khusted  |  November 16, 2009 6:28:11 AM

I have been a volunteer with the American Cancer Society for over a year. I started volunteering with them because I had a close family member diagnosed with cancer.

ACS is not perfect, but I have been truly impressed with the organization. I have volunteered in three different offices and have found everyone working there to be dedicated, passionate, and hard-working. Despite what others have claimed, I have never felt that the staff plays the "cancer card" at any event, nor do their staff drive fancy cars.

I think it is important to remember that ACS cannot be all things to all people. It cannot specialize in every type of cancer (there are over 200 types), nor provide every service that a cancer patient may need. ACS does provides information/educational materials for many types of cancer. They provide transportation and access to support groups. They advocate on behalf of cancer patients, and they are largest funder of cancer research next to the U.S. government.

Exeutive compensation! 2006
Posted by Truth about ACS  |  July 24, 2009 11:42:54 AM

Chief Executive : John R. Seffrin, Chief Executive Officer Compensation*: $1,101,119

*September 1, 2005 - August 31, 2006; compensation includes annual salary and, if applicable, benefit plans, expense accounts, and other allowances.

http://www.bbb.org/charity-reviews/national/toc/american-cancer-society-in-atlanta-ga-186

relay for life...
Posted by pinkie  |  July 5, 2009 7:49:14 AM

our small rural county just finished it's 4th Relay for Life campaign and raised $60k from a county with less than 7,000 inhabitants. I was initially invited to be a part of the 'team' but quickly became uncomfortable with the way the paid professionals involved were so skilled at playing the 'cancer card'.

Sure, it is wonderful to recognise and support those whose lives have been impacted by cancer, but to use this emotional "hook" as a fundraiser is repugnant to me. I think it would be to others as well if they knew how little of the funds they raise actually go to research or programs that help people right here. Everyone pats themselves on the back because they think they are raising money for research. And there are NO messages about prevention presented at the Relay for Life events. It is all about "fighting" for a cure.

But what can I do? I can't criticise the well-meaning efforts of all my friends and neighbors who rally in support, can I? People just need to be more pragmatic about where these dollars go.

CEO's salary 5 years ago according to Forbes
Posted by informed  |  June 30, 2009 5:52:32 AM

Top Person: John R. Seffrin Top Salary:* $ 902,009

FY ending 08/31/04

http://www.forbes.com/lists/2005/14/CH0003.html

Saving Lives
Posted by Warrior  |  June 17, 2009 6:00:20 AM

All is know is that for 96 years the American Cancer Society has been dedicated to SAVING LIVES....four ways...helping people STAY WELL through prevention and early detection activities...helping people GET WELL through patient information and support services...helping FIND CURES as the leading non-government source of cancer research funding anywhere...and FIGHTING BACK by moblizing communities to take up the fight and by working with lawmakers on smoke-free communities and access to cancer care.

Salaries
Posted by utus99  |  June 12, 2009 6:13:14 AM

No charity, and I mean NONE, should have a CEO that makes more than the President of the United States -- $400,000. I don't care how much "talent" it takes to run a charity -- if the CEO of our government can attempt to solve an economic crisis and two wars for $400k a year, I think the ACS CEO can effectively run this "charity" for the same amount. Enough is enough!! These people are supposed to put human goodwill ahead of their bank accounts...tell me, what separates them from the rest of this country's corrupt CEOs?

Personal Experience
Posted by Worn-Out  |  June 10, 2009 12:14:13 PM

As a 2x survivor, ACS never proved helpful. The 2nd go-round, we requested info/help & got a generalized packet like some others mentioned. I had no med ins coverage for cancer due to my 1st diagnosis & needed local resources to help w/costs. ACS had nothing for me. No one told me about the wig room, supplements, gas cards, support grp. But some research they've participated in proved useful during my treatment. My husband & I nevertheless volunteered w/ACS the last several yrs. However, we've become disillusioned when faced by ACS refusal/inability to help w/costs of gas (they only give out $50 btw) because the patient didn't live over 50 miles from treatment or their lack of programs in our area because they don't have volunteers to drive people to appointments. I've emailed my contacts on various occasions to find help for families facing losing utilities or homes - I get nothing back; no response! We've literally helped raise tens of thousands in our area, but they can give a patient only 1 case of supplement per month for 3 months. If I wasn't self-employed, I would never have been able to put in the man-hours required of the diff positions we've held. And ACS pays their EE's 400 million per yr?! The CEO gets over $600k & I can't get 1 gas card for a woman to take her dying husband to his doc appointments? Can't get advice to find local resources for people like them! I've often faced ACS EE's that are rude, abrasive & downright unhelpful & demanding. Then watched them throw volunteers under the proverbial bus. This yr has been the worst. The RFL event & other survivors we met were what helped us - they've given us hope to survive this disease & encouragement for my husband that he will make it if I don't. We are worn-out, though, & have often thought we could do more good to simply start our own program helping patients locally offering guidance through financial crisis, rides, other services and emotional support. We never found those things @ our ACS

ACS does nothing for children
Posted by kaismom  |  May 6, 2009 6:23:45 AM

Maybe ACS is doing great things for other cancers but when my son was diagnosed with a brain tumor and we asked them for help the local chapter sent me pamphlets about prostate/breast cancer and how everyone should wear sunscreen. Unbelievable!! They provided NOTHING! The National Children's Cancer Society provided us with help for airfare, taxis, medical bills, and tons of other things. They were wonderful! ACS was a joke. I also know a person that worked for the local chapter and she had to quit because she felt they were squeezing money out of local areas to pay for the big extravagant buildings/CEOs,parties etc. in Georgia. The local chapters would bust their butt to fundraise and the National would take their money and give them a smaller budget.

Previous comments off base
Posted by Indisia  |  April 27, 2009 1:07:34 PM

Responding to prior comments it seems odd that folks would criticize the "small portion" of funds ACS contributes to cancer research....It's the 2nd largest funder of cancer research behind the Federal government (which, btw, dwarfs all other cancer research). http://www.cancerportfolio.com/index.jsp

ACS has prevention, detection, transportation, awareness and advocacy programs that apply to ALL cancers, not just individual cancers. ACS leads/participates in countless coalitions at the federal & state levels, takes advisory roles in many activities, has a 501c4 advocacy spin-off that fights in the legistlatures, Congress and even the courts...what else is there?

Sure, there's room for improvement on the program cost efficiency end of things, but they're clearly working on that (Note: The comments about not providing paper documents....THAT IS A GOOD THING!...on-demand printing is better for the environment as paper & ink aren't wasted)

Be a wise donor
Posted by cancernurse  |  April 22, 2009 6:07:54 AM

As a former ACS County Board Member of and an oncology nurse of 20+ years, I can tell you that the American Cancer Society has become a charity serving itself. I cannot get any help for patients (and I do mean, nothing) from our region with the exception of LGFB, and I myself found the facilitator for that. However, what our patients need is funding for direct care such as COBRA assistance, copay relief, etc(check out Patient Access Network Foundation, Healthwell Foundation, Chronic Disease Foundation just to name a few.) There are plenty of other entities out there who use their dollars more wisely for research and program support. It amused (and angered) me when I attended ACS meetings held at my center to see the cars parked in our parking lot....BMW's, Mercedes, Audis, etc all belonging to ACS staff while our docs and staff drive Hondas, Fords, Chevys, etc. Our docs will not support ACS due to the fact that we do not get service for our patients, and money is directed where it is not best spent. For pediatrics, CureSearch, CandleLighters are both extremely worthy causes. I spent 17 years in pediatric oncology; ACS provided no help to our patients and families, CureSearch and CandleLighters did, without fail. Oh, and by the way, as of this year ACS will not longer provide printed materials to patients....you must download them from the computer. The reason??? Cost. Enough said.

ACS Uses Kids more than it helps them.
Posted by Cancer mom  |  April 13, 2009 5:52:27 AM

I have a child now battling cancer for the 2nd time - He's 13 years old. I recently learned that less than 3% of funds from fund-raising events like Relay for Life go to ALL 12 CHILDHOOD CANCERS COMBINED (If you raise $2000, less than $50.00 goes to children)- Whereas a much larger proportion (12% I believe) goes to prostate cancer. I have nothing against those with prostate cancer, except that it already has a 99% cure rate and the average age of someone diagnosed is 68 years old. Why is the ACS allocating so much of its research dollars on 68 year old men with a a 99% cure rate instead of children, for whom cancer is the number 1 disease killer??? How many times have you seen an elderly gentleman as the "Poster Child" on a Relay for Life poster?? I'm tired of my child and other children with cancer being used in this way, and I will no longer endorse the ACS for misleading the public in this way. My son's friend told him she was doing Relay for Life for kids like him - He told her that only 3% of the money she raised was going to kids. She said "I had no idea. I thought I was just helping kids like you!" I'm sure that's what a LOT of people think. Please ACS, be honest about where the money goes, and give these kids a fair share if you want them to tug at the public's heartstrings and pursestrings. How sad that not only do drug companies not see children's cancer research as being "profitable" (See article in Cure Magazine, "No Child Left Behind") but we have even been misled by the very organization we thought was helping us. My money and support now go to Curesearch,St.Baldricks, and Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation.

Find a Cure-Look at the numbers !
Posted by Matt-Research !  |  April 6, 2009 10:02:45 AM

When I hear and read the ACS use of the phrase"Eliminate Cancer", boy do I want to eliminate them!! If they want to make that statement, then maybe they ought to truly use the money that they fundraise to that end.

For year ending 2007, they took in 1.1 Billion dollars, yet only used 146 million of that towards cancer research !!!!!! 14 percent!! I realize that they help in other ways, but let's let people know how your money is truly used. 14 pct for research!! That money is divided up to the various types of cancers, and maybe the figures look good,but for example, under 8 million is allowed for brain tumor research,so when a brain tumored survivor gives a $100.00 donation, what he is actually doing is giving less that a dollar towards brain tumor research. About .79 cents. He could give to the American Brain Tumor Association and that same $100 would be giving about $78.00 for research. Just an example. The ACS should also let people know that 20% of one's donation goes right back into further donation costs.

Sorry to be so sour, but this is all true. I tell many of people in the area where I live these things, and they opt out of relay for life, and these types of things.

Matt

CEO's salary
Posted by KAE  |  April 3, 2009 6:18:39 AM

I understand concern for the ACS's CEO making so much money, but if you look at the percentage of net revenue that he has in salary it is minimal. Another organization that has 13.2 million in net revenue is paying their CEO $168,000 per year. That is 1.3% of their net revenue. At least the ACS CEO is makeing .06% of their net revenue.

I'm not saying that I agree with his very large salary, I don't think anyone needs that much money per year, but compaired to other organizations his salary percentage is a lot lower based on the size of the organization. It's not totally fair to compare spending of an organization of this size to organizations less than 5% of it's size.

Confused
Posted by Trish  |  April 3, 2009 6:17:33 AM

Since I have not had personal dealings with ACS I cannot give an opinion except to say that in reading all of these different postings, I am confused.

All I can say is that perhaps it depends on which office in which part of the country you are dealing with,as some people say they get help and compassion and others say the opposite. I just hope I do not have to ever have the opportunity to personally have to ask for help and am sorry for those who have had bad dealings with ACS.

My confusion leaves me unsure as to keep giving money to ACS or to a different Cancer charity. I will check into the financial records with the IRS and perhaps that will help with where the money is going but I will still not know for sure about the personal help being given to cancer patients.

Please continue to support ACS
Posted by ACS saved me!  |  March 10, 2009 5:47:04 AM

I know that alot of these bitter comments are misguided. When you or someone you love gets cancer , you feel so helpless and angry. 5 years ago my doctor said the words "you have cancer..." to me. In almost the same breath he said that he'd been funded by a grant from the American Cancer Society and had discovered a treatment that could cure me. We started right away and today I am cancer free. I later contacted my local ACS office and they offered me assistance with transportation and free lodging while I underwent treatment. I know that I for one believe this in what this organization does. I When I look at the excesses of wall street and auto execs at $60 and $70M in salary plus stock the ACS CEO salary seems low. Whats more important, my life or a gas guzzling SUV?

ACS using the children but not helping them
Posted by Aunt Kaye  |  March 1, 2009 10:51:45 PM

ACS always has a picture of a sick child on their publications, but less than a drop in the bucket goes to help those children. ACS is using these sick kids and is refusing to help them, instead they pay their CEO an outragious amount of money! My 16 month old niece's family was told that ACS can't help kids, she died at 28 months, thanks for the help ACS! I'm supporting the kids and families with cancer instead; http://curechildhoodcancer.ning.com/ These families have had to deal with a child having cancer or had to bury a child that died from cancer, they have already paid a huge price and unlike ACS's CEO they know first hand what that price acutally is, greed for money isn't what they look for Mr. CEO, a cure for thier children is what they want. I urge others who want to cure our kids, don't support ACS, instead support the People Against Childhood Cancer, they don't have a pricy CEO, but they do have kids who have cancer that need national attention. Read the numbers, 3000 kids die each year from cancer! Cancer is the #1 cause of death by disease in kids, yet NCI gives less than 3% to cure ALL the cancers in kids, while ACS uses their pictures to get pitty donations. I've walked, worked and donated to the Relay for 15 years or more, I've really got an education on ACS this past year. Wake up folks, this is another black hole that is only helping a few while feeding itself on our charity. Don't be fooled, they are taking our money in, but it is NOT going where it ALL needs to go, to the patients. Wake up ACS and Wake up those who donate to them! CureChildhoodCancer.ning.com deserves our attention and our donations, it's about our future, it's about our kids.

Employee of ACS and also a Registered Nurse
Posted by TO  |  February 17, 2009 6:38:24 AM

As an employee of the ACS I am first concerned, as are others, regarding the salary of our CEO. I agree with both remarks stating this salary needs to remain competitive to have the best leaders yet we are searching to find a cure as our main mission. Could he possibly spend some of this money to move the marble in this direction? I'm not saying this is right or wrong but it is disturbing even for those of us who work for the organization.

Contrary to what I've heard - most of us who work for the ACS are devoted, compassionate individuals who are trying to make a difference in the cancer fight! We believe in what we are doing and put forth a tremendous amount of effort to fight for those stricken with cancer.

I would also like to take this time to apologize to those of you who have had less than amazing, compassionate care and assistance when it comes to the ACS. I am saddened that you feel this way.

However, in defense of the ACS and for those of you who were looking to have ALL your needs answered by the ACS you must understand that we do not offer EVERYTHING to everyone. One thing we don't offer is any type of large financial assistance. Believe me...as an employee of the ACS and also an RN I know this kind of assistance is needed too..it just doesn't come from us. And we are sorry when we have to turn patients away who need it.

The ACS offers multiple programs and services that are geared to help the MASSES and offer HOPE to those battling cancer. Our programs offer mostly emotional support (which is also needed!)- along with educational support, items such as wigs/hats, breast prosthesis and bras for those who can't afford them. Financial assistance comes in the form of reduced or free lodging in certain areas, local rides to and from appointments and a small amount of assistance with gas money. We fight for change at the government level and give millions of $$ to research hoping one day we will find a cure. A cure that will help the MASSES!!

CEO's salary
Posted by ChicosMom  |  February 4, 2009 9:02:04 AM

$600K+!? That's crazy and I'm so surprised. His name should be coming out with the rest of Wall Street's. I'm going a Cancer fundraising event this April, but I won't be contributing any after that until he takes a pay cut or they get four stars.

CEO John Seffrin
Posted by howardH  |  January 6, 2009 8:13:53 AM

Taking over $600 salary is over the top.

Great patient care!
Posted by Theresa  |  December 27, 2008 1:24:34 AM

My sister, who was diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago, was helped tremendously by the services of our local American Cancer Society office. They provided her with information about her cancer, a professionally styled wig and hats to get through chemotherapy, and connections to other cancer survivors for advice and support. Their help was invaluable to her, and was something that I could not provide, having never been through a cancer diagnosis myself.

There Are Better Choices
Posted by bdrmd  |  December 22, 2008 6:38:46 AM

The salary of the CEO is egregious despite the large intake of funds ACS receives. A better choice for Cancer Research and funds distribution is Curesearch or the Children's Cancer Research organization. Their funds are more wisely handled and they do benefit kids!

ACS-No Charity
Posted by CarolR  |  December 15, 2008 7:26:24 AM

I was diagnosed in April 2007 with stage IV breast cancer. I went to ACS office in my neighborhood and explained to the staff there that I needed help navigating the medical system and financial assistance and was given a COOK BOOK. I'm in a union that has a fund raiser every year for the ACS. To date, at that time the members had given the ACS 500,000.00. I signed up to receive emails from the ACS to see what they do with all the money that's donated and I find them to be nothing more than an organization that lobbys for the government to pass bills. So, I too ask what exactly do they do with all the money that's donated. In closing, I was told by a regional manager that the ACS DOESN'T help with financial assistance.

no help for patients or caregivers
Posted by AMoore  |  December 8, 2008 6:40:54 AM

Twelve years ago my mother was diagnosed with lung cancer while she was without health insurance. My sister, 19, and myself, 22, were her only caregivers and financial support. Her doctor suggested contacting ACS for information on her type of cancer. When we called the Denver chapter, we got bounced all over the place before someone took our information and promised to send us some information. A few days later, we got a package of brochures for various types of female cancers; breast, uterine, cervical, etc. The only helpful thing we got was a short cookbook for those undergoing chemo & radiation. This happened twice. Some months later we were looking for support groups Again the doctor suggested ACS. Again, no one seemed capable of directing our call to the right personnel. This time we got disconnected several times. At the end of this infuriating experience, we were told that there were no groups meeting in the Denver metro area. We had to drive 90 minutes away to Longmont. Time we didn't have. Just after that, we were having issues with severe flooding in our apartment and contacted ACS for help as by this point, my mom was dying and my sister had to quit work to care for her full time. We were informed, they "didn't do that". The only suggestion they could give us was to get the health department involved. We were forced to stay in different locations. This made caring for Mom very difficult with many lost hours of work and late night trips. We couldn't even get any help with that. We were not asking for a handout. Help with my mothers medicine costs, referral to other organizations for caregiving support, or an attorney to get the apartment complex to just let us move to another apartment without mold growing on the walls and floor. ACS claims compassion and resources for patients and caregivers. They couldn't even provide information, and not once did I encounter any compassion. Better for the world if this charity ceased to exist.

rating
Posted by hardtimes  |  November 18, 2008 7:38:19 AM

I will give to the ACS this year 08 but unless the rating substantially improves next yr they will be dropped from my list.

Management of Funds
Posted by Hope  |  November 17, 2008 6:41:07 AM

With rising medical costs, I would challenge the leadership of ACS to evaluate how they manage their funds and review the original mission of the ACS. The CEO's compensation is completely out of balance. The ACS does some wonderful work. That said, the organization falls short in the management of the work and the amount of patients it could help.

CEO salary ridiculous
Posted by bykeiser  |  November 14, 2008 6:55:32 AM

I will not donate to any charity that pays ridiculously high salaries to administrative officers. Your CEO salary is indicative of the greed that is ruining the American economy.

CEO salary outrageous
Posted by Zorch Tierod  |  November 5, 2008 11:08:20 AM

I am currently receiving treatment for colon cancer, and as part of my estate preparation (should I not be lucky enough to respond fully to treatment), I am looking at various cancer-related charities. I will not be volunteering or giving a thin dime to ACS, primarily because of the outrageous salary of the CEO. I'm sorry, but $600K is FAR too much to pay to a person leading a charitable organization with a rating of only two stars. Finding a cure for cancer deserves better than this. Hire someone who has better leadership abilities, management skills, who truly cares about beating cancer, and would be grateful for a salary less than $100K. Until then, no contributions from me.

Do not donate to the American Cancer Society
Posted by Keep Your Money  |  September 30, 2008 12:55:04 PM

Find another charity. My son had radiation treatment for lymphoma. He needed a feeding tube because his mouth became so sore from the treatments he could not eat. The American Cancer Society could only give us three cases of Boost supplement. Really - three cases lasted us only two weeks. My son at times was unable to keep the supplement down because of all the other medication effects he was on. For a charity that continues to raise so much money with its "Relay for Life" events, you would think they could afford to supple cancer patients with more that three case of nutritional supplements. I will encourage every one to stop supporting the American Cancer Society.

ACS
Posted by Inquisitive1  |  July 16, 2008 5:25:54 AM

I urge all of you to send for the financial records that are filed with the IRS. You will find that ACS spreads the overhead among the programs to make the administrative costs seem smaller. That makes it look like more money goes into the programs like research than actually does. Overhead is spread out among the programs to make it appear that they are being good stewards and spending more on programs than salaries. In 2005, ACS had income of 866 million, of which they said 121 million went towards research, (14%). However,you will find that only 95 million (11%) actually reached the research facilities. 26 million in salaries, retirement, etc was allocated towards their research "Programs". The sad fact is, of every dollar given to ACS, only 2 cents goes toward childhood cancer research. 17 million of 866 million. Over 400 million was spent on ACS employees. Then requeat a list of the grants that research money is spent on. You will find that millions of dollars are spent on things like "the effect of cancer on siblings", "the effect of cancer on lesbian couples", and similar social issues that have nothing to do with finding a cure. I would encourage you to send your money to a more worthy organization.

not surprised at ACS 2 star rating
Posted by ET  |  June 23, 2008 6:04:41 AM

Since learning that ACS is more concerned with endorsing socialized medicine (hence,electing a Democratic president) than "finding a cure", even a 2 star rating is surprising. People actually state that ACS provided assistance and transportation for afflicted family members? ACS was worthless whenever my family approached them for ANY assistance/guidance. Millions of so called "finding a cure" dollars going for everything else. Find another charity.

This is no charity
Posted by Tony  |  June 11, 2008 5:50:23 AM

I would like to know what research they are talking about? Does the ACS do any medical research? They only do epidemiology research and only to prove that second hand smoke is bad. Even their research is highly dubious. That is why they must hire young researchers that need money and give them results they want.

This eighty three cents goes towards programs is not honest. Even this charity rater shows they spend twenty five percent of what they take in on fundraising. Correct me if I'm wrong, but my math skills say that isn't possible. Smart Money magazine rated them 93rd out of the largest 100 charities because how little of the money goes toward "programs". More than half of the "program" money is research to promote pharmacuetical companies that fund them. What actually makes it to the victims of cancer - something like nine cents on the dollar. No charity can give 100%, but 9% is basically theft.

The real question is - how can a organization that relies on volunteers spend more money on salaries than "programs". The ACS is the equivalent of a crooked televangelist. They suck money from good charities such as St Judes that actually want to help people.

I also find it interesting that just about everyone defending ACS works there. Why would an organization have its PR people out scouring charity raters and message boards if they didn't think they had something to worry about.

What about the children?
Posted by matthewzachary  |  June 10, 2008 6:07:43 AM

It should also be pointed out that next to nothing out of the already depleted scraps they put toward research are geared to pediatric, adolescent or young adult populations. The senior management at such respectable professional groups such as The Children's Oncology Group have been fighting tooth and nail to get even the tiniest fraction of their billions put toward this direction and - squat. Yeah, they have some cancer camps but that's not cure.

Where the money goes
Posted by MsJones  |  June 9, 2008 12:53:49 PM

As a long-time volunteer on the local and national levels with ACS, I have heard a lot of concern about where the money actually goes.

$0.83 of every $1 donated to the American Cancer Society goes to programs, services and research, contrary to what many have posted here. As I mentioned, that money is broken up into parts. Research may not make up the largest part, but it still makes ACS the largest private funder of cancer research in the United States, and the second-largest funder overall behind the US government. That research funding has gone to 40+ Nobel laureates, many of whom were funded early in their careers. Most research organizations fund only established researchers. This funding has gone to discover Gleevec, a popular drug in cancer treatments.

If you're still concerned that not all of the money goes to research, I have a point to bring up to you. Much of ACS's donations go to programs and services for cancer patients and their families, as well as prevention and early detection programs. How would you tell someone newly diagnosed with cancer that there is nowhere for him/her to turn for support during his/her battle because all of the money has gone to research? Would you say, "sorry, you're out of luck because you got cancer too early?" No. You would do everything in your power to support these people.

I have met some of the most dedicated, passionate people while volunteering for ACS. I have volunteered in many of these programs and events, and as far as I am concerned, there is no other organization in this country that is as dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem than the American Cancer Society is.

Supporting MSABC
Posted by JMac  |  June 6, 2008 6:01:02 AM

I am a local chairman for the ACS's event, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer this year. I find the people within this organization to be concientious, caring, and extremely professional. I am proud to be involved in ACS events.

I am surprised that the Charity Navigator rating is only 2 out of 4. I believe that the people who are involved work extremely hard and are impressively dedicated. They deserve to be paid well -- I doubt that the ACS critics are working for free. It's also necessary to spend a little money in order to make a lot, and it won't take you long to see that ACS raises an incredible amount of money and contributes a striking amount to research and programs. The ACS programs are well designed and help hundreds of thousands of people. I encourage you to get involved and work for even more progress. Don't just criticize and complain, get to work and make a difference.

ACS
Posted by Tony  |  May 28, 2008 12:06:20 PM

The problem that I have with the ACS is what is done with the money. For every dollar - about twenty cents goes toward programs. Half of that is research - but not "finding a cure" research. They only do epidemiology studies. They are heavily funded and led by the pharmacuetical companies. The only studies they conduct and publish are only in favor of the "Big Pharma".

If your going to give, there are many other chartible organizations that will actually use the money. Smart Money Magazine rated them one of the worst of the 100 biggest charities in 2005.

Charity
Posted by Jonathan  |  May 23, 2008 10:25:15 AM

Now I am confused. ACS is obviousl the big name in Cancer bases charity. But it gets a low rating on this website, which I trust. So do I support ACS or do I find a smaller, better rated charity to contribute to? I want what little money I can afford to give to help in the biggest way possible. Do I want my money sitting next to a billion dollars in a savings account somewhere? Maybe a smaller, local charity is the way I should go. Any suggestions?

Funny.
Posted by dave  |  May 19, 2008 8:18:38 AM

i was asked by a potential corporate sponsor this question. why does the ACS CEO get paid $534,619.00 a year when other CEO's of christian childrens fund gets paid $274,276.00 and world vision CEO gets $351,000 and Compassion CEO gets $187,440...???? why does this person rate over twice the salary of other charitable organizations? Why should i donate my $$$ when the top $$$ gets more than the researchers??? shouldn't he take a cut so the researchers have an opportunity to find a cure? needless to say he didn't sponsor the relay and was very verbal about it.

There are other people complaining that the other CEO earn $351000. I guess these guys should just work for free. The govt allows them to earn a salary that is within reason. A For-Profit CEO would earn several million with salary, and stocks and options, so why is ACS CEO underpaid? That's what I'd say.

Blood cancer survior supporting the ACS
Posted by Robin  |  May 19, 2008 6:05:42 AM

I have to wonder if some of the ACS's activities are classified the same way as other charties.

Comparing them to to another charity that shall remain nameless, the ACS's mass media campaigns seems to focus on an awareness message, while the other focuses on organization and it's fundraising arms. Cancer and survivors get a passing mention.

There difference between the two is if a woman has a lump in her breast, she doesn't have a fight for a biopsy, while if that same woman has swollen lump nodes she's be dismissed as having an unknown infection.

Prostate, cervical, breast, lung cancers. All of these are taken seriously because the ACS has made people aware. A person with Lymphoma be denied their diagnosis until they are Stage IV.

Do all the expenses for Hope Lodge get credited as 'services'?

As for the money in the bank, if the economy continues to tank and donations drop, they will have the resources to continue programs.

And if all cancers were suddenly cured tomorrow, they'd still have plenty of work to do. Many current survivors have been 'cured' only to be left with life long health issues that are only now started address by the oncology industry under the category of 'survivorship'.

IMPACT on RESEARCH
Posted by Adam  |  May 19, 2008 5:58:30 AM

As a bonafide cancer researcher, I can tell you that besides its outreach, education, and clinical support programs, the ACS supports young researchers in the US with competitive but generous grants. By specifically targetting young researcher, those just starting their independent careers, the ACS is supporting the most innovative and vulnerable part of the research community. F

Thank you American Cancer Society
Posted by eliminatecancer  |  May 9, 2008 5:44:33 AM

Thank you for all that you have done for my family: funding the research that cured my sister; helped my sister get insurance and medical treatment; drove her to treatment when I had to work; and supporting my family, in-person, day after day, while we waited for her to come out of surgery, treatment, etc.

Uncritical critics
Posted by whaley39  |  April 29, 2008 1:17:42 PM

I have to say that as a cancer survivor, and someone who lost a spouse to cancer, ACS is about the best of its kind in my book. If we think more should go to research we should lobby for that through local chapters. Maybe it should. But in my wife's time with ovarian cancer (3 years), we had a meaningful series of support lectures and group meetings, led by ACS and area staff and medical leaders. She was offered a free wig but found one we could afford, eventually turning it in for a future patient. Not research but important! We received helpful information and have been involved in the Relay for Life here since my likely melanoma in l995. To say that a "small amount goes to research and the rest to administration" as one "critic" implied is simply wrong. Look at the pie chart!Since my limited use of the fine "Navigator" to check charities sending me mail I find that ACS spends somewhat less than the average for overhead. Compensation seems high for its CEO but is the "uncritical critic" on this one knowledgeable about recruitment and retention of high powered executives, and did they compare the budgets of the organizations cited. I admit I have not, but wonder when I see anger whether the person knows the field and can really compare as they did. On balance ACS does a great job and will continue I hope. Meanwhile I think we have to be critical in the best sense, which implies balance of intent and a willingness to investigate thoroughly.

Money for research
Posted by lauren  |  April 17, 2008 5:45:41 AM

I have a child with cancer and was surprised to learn how relatively little of ACS' budget went toward funding research (less than 20 %). This doesn't mean that what they do spend money on isn't important; it just means that if you want to put your money toward research into finding cures you should look elsewhere. This is especially true if you are trying to donate to research about a specific sort of cancer since the ACS doesn't generally allow you to target money in that fashion.

cancer card and fundraising.
Posted by pinkie  |  April 2, 2008 5:44:20 AM

I don't like the way this organization uses the 'cancer card ' to raise funds in their Relay for Life program . And when I see that a small portion of what is raised goes to research and the rest goes for fundraising expenses, I really see red. I am interested in the new theory of cancer being a virus... what is AMS doing on this issue?

Investing in success and results
Posted by DirMedia  |  March 24, 2008 11:41:15 AM

As a Society employee, I appreciate these comments. The American Cancer Society takes very seriously the investments donors make in our mission. We are committed to saving nearly 11 million lives from cancer by 2015, and to funding lifesaving research and providing unparalleled services to patients, survivors, and caregivers.

To deliver on our promise, the Society has adopted the most effective structure possible: a volunteer national governing board, backed by millions of volunteers in regional Divisions and communities nationwide, plus the guidance and support of select professional staff.

The national board, in setting the CEO salary, must make the Society an employer of choice for the most talented individuals. That means compensating our leaders realistically, at a level that competes with other top nonprofits. The board tries to balance the need to attract top talent with careful stewardship of every donor dollar. Society executives are not the highest paid in the nonprofit arena. In fact, our leadership compensation doesn’t compare with private sector organizations of similar scope and size.

To the posts about assets, the Society, in addition to research, manages operations and delivery of services in more than 4000 communities; providing services to more than 10 million paitents and survivors. The assets equal one year of revenue. That money is a safety net for the national organization and all the Divisions.

As we work to conquer cancer through research, education, advocacy, and service, we also strive to use our resources as wisely and effectively as possible.

$$$ salary
Posted by Twindy  |  March 20, 2008 5:38:18 AM

i was asked by a potential corporate sponsor this question. why does the ACS CEO get paid $534,619.00 a year when other CEO's of christian childrens fund gets paid $274,276.00 and world vision CEO gets $351,000 and Compassion CEO gets $187,440...???? why does this person rate over twice the salary of other charitable organizations? Why should i donate my $$$ when the top $$$ gets more than the researchers??? shouldn't he take a cut so the researchers have an opportunity to find a cure? needless to say he didn't sponsor the relay and was very verbal about it.

Over a billion dollars in the bank
Posted by Jackie  |  February 11, 2008 12:43:46 PM

This money is not only valuable to keep the organization active, it is invested and earning additional income. The needs of the organization, being examined by the board would determine liquidation of any of these funds for future research. If you are operating successfully, evaluating the research grants that are being applied for and still can maintain a billion dollars in the bank, what is the problem? As for putting themselves out of business, I think any effective charitable organization fighting for the cure of something so passionately would welcome a "we are no longer needed" status. They would simply divert their energies into another world solving issue, that being the personality driven trait of I would hope most of these organizations.

Over a Billion Dollars in the bank
Posted by JimmB  |  February 8, 2008 8:17:47 AM

Why are they accumulating an additionall $100 Million a year in assets? Wouldn't this money be better INVESTED IN RESEARCH?

The best thing a charity can do is put itself out of business by accomplishing its purpose. What good does a BILLION dollars in the bank do?