How Can I Give Back to the Cancer Community?

May 23, 2025
2 individuals on a video call - how can I support the cancer community

There is something profoundly human about wanting to ease the burden of others, especially when they are facing the weight of a cancer diagnosis. Whether you have experienced cancer personally, supported a loved one through treatment, or simply feel called to help, there are countless ways to give back to the cancer community. Every act of support—whether through time, kindness, or resources—can bring light to someone navigating dark and uncertain days.

In this guide, we invite you to explore compassionate, practical ways to make a difference, including: how to volunteer for cancer patients, and opportunities to attend an event that brings communities together in hope and healing.

Ways to Give Back to the Cancer Community

1. Volunteer Your Time and Skills

One of the most heartfelt answers to the question, “How can I support people with cancer?” is to show up for them through service. Volunteering is more than a role—it is a relationship built on care. Whether you support a local nonprofit, lend a hand at community events, or offer comfort to individuals and families, your time becomes a lifeline.

You can volunteer with CanCare or explore nationwide efforts through networks of cancer volunteers across the nation. Volunteers are the heartbeat of cancer support organizations, helping with everything from administrative tasks to providing companionship, emotional support, and reassurance. It is also a powerful way to give back to my community and connect with others who share the same values of empathy and support.

CanCare offers a wide range of the best cancer volunteer opportunities to support cancer patients and their families and caregivers.

2. Donate to Cancer Support Organizations

Not everyone can give time, but every person can make an impact. When you donate to a cancer support organization, like CanCare, your contribution fuels life-changing programs—things like transportation to treatments, one-on-one counseling, and wellness workshops for patients and families.

Your generosity helps ensure that cancer support communities can change lives by making resources more accessible and holistic. Donations of any size allow nonprofits to continue offering services with dignity and care.

Your contributions to CanCare help fund essential support services for individuals and families affected by cancer. Make a difference.

3. Attend Events and Fundraisers

Events bring people together in beautiful and powerful ways. Whether it is a community walk, a gala dinner, or an online fundraiser, you are part of something larger than yourself when you attend an event. These gatherings raise awareness, celebrate survivors, and honor those we have lost.

Participating is one of the most inspiring ways to give; you do not have to do it alone. Bring a friend, join a team, or volunteer at the event. Your presence helps build momentum and spread hope.

Join CanCare events that bring the community together to celebrate survivors and raise awareness. View upcoming events.

4. Spread Awareness and Educate Others

Education is one of the most enduring gifts you can offer. Talking to friends, sharing articles online, or inviting others to learn more about prevention and support services can open hearts and minds. These conversations matter. They encourage others to give back to the community and help remove stigma and fear surrounding cancer.

CanCare provides helpful cancer support resources and has just released a book “Hope in the Face of Cancer” specifically tailored to be a resource for cancer patients, containing testimonies and advice from cancer survivors to inspire hope inside of all those who are affected by cancer. Check out our book on Amazon today!

Benefits of Cancer Volunteer Work

The benefits of volunteering for cancer patients are both personal and profound. Beyond making a difference for others, volunteers often walk away with renewed purpose, deeper empathy, and lifelong friendships.

Through shared stories, teamwork, and genuine human connection, you witness firsthand how giving back your community in this way is rewarding and lifechanging. And in doing so, you may also find your life changed. Together, we can uplift every voice and walk with every fighter, one meaningful step at a time. 

Connect with us today to start your cancer volunteering journey!