Cancer Awareness Sunday (CAS) is an opportunity for communities to address the fears surrounding cancer by discussing prevention, practicing early detection, and to present affordable prevention and treatment programs. By doing this we will increase awareness and ultimately reduce the effects of cancer in our communities. This program was designed to get information about Cancer to our communities for at least one day out of the year.

Now is the time to expand on this concept, not only to talk about cancer once in the year, but also to take action against this devastating disease. As a result of our actions we can all play a role in significantly reduce cancer in our communities.  In 2006 we collaborated with over 30 churches in the Metro Area. African American churches, including collaboration with the Stairstep Foundation, and Latino churches combined reached over 6,500 people and 206 screened. In 2007 CAS has been expanded to Asian/Pacific Islander community. 

For 2006 we offered two main avenues for CAS: The standard and expanded versions.  Listed below is a list of key elements for each version, which is also serving as the framework for this years CAS. Again this is just the framework or guide for CAS, individuality and creativity are encouraged and welcomed. Please free feel to contact me with any suggestions you may have to make this a more effective event for the community.  

Key Elements for CAS

Standard Version: 

• Offered several times a year April, June, and/or October
• Plan and implement a one-day “Event Style” presentation (health fair, gospel celebration, etc…)
• Select a minimum of two components from the expanded version to present at presentation
• Set up a display or table of materials
• Provide a minimum of one person to answer questions after service
• Make a verbal announcement one week before CAS, display save-the-day posters, and/or place invitation cards in bulletin
• Organize one ACS program by 12/06
• Provide complete Facilitator Report and/or Vouchers by date indicated

Expanded Version: 

Components:

Week 1    5-10 minute presentation of: What is Cancer Awareness Sunday? What is Cancer? Who does it affect? What can we do to prevent it? (Read Part I Fact Sheet)

Week 2    5-10 minute presentation from a member of the church who has been affected by Cancer. (family or friend with a diagnosis of cancer)

Week 3    10-15 minute presentation from a member who has been recently diagnosed or a survivor of Cancer.

Week 4    5-10 minute presentation about future Cancer on a Sunday presentation, provide congregation with voucher and low cost alternative screening programs, and conclude with a pray for conquering Cancer. (Read Part II Fact Sheet)

For more information, contact: Makeisha Nesbitt
Phone: 651-255-8138
Email: Makeisha.nesbitt@cancer.org

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