The Maine Breast Cancer Coalition, a nonprofit, grassroots, volunteer-based organization established in 1992, is currently seeking new members. Annual memberships supply critical funding for MBCC’s general operating costs and make it possible for the coalition to continue its important work throughout the state of Maine.
Annual memberships are available in various levels for both individuals (starting at $15) and businesses (starting at $50).
MBCC is composed of breast cancer survivors, health care professionals, representatives from cancer-related organizations and supporters who are dedicated to making a positive difference in the health of Maine people through financial support, advocacy and education.
Beyond annual membership, those who would like to become involved as an active volunteer in any capacity are always welcome. The organization’s subcommittees work on three areas of focus as follows:
Financial Support: Underserved Maine residents are assisted through the Support Service Fund which provides financial assistance for breast health or breast cancer related needs to those who qualify. The Fund assists low-income, uninsured, and underinsured people, including those newly diagnosed with breast cancer, who don’t qualify for, or whose particular needs aren’t covered by other assistance programs.
Since the fund was established in 2000, MBCC has awarded grants totaling over $2,000,000 to more than 4,000 Maine residents with breast cancer and breast health issues.
Advocacy: Through collaboration with the National Breast Cancer Coalition, many MBCC members have attended training conferences and workshops in Washington, DC, learning about the most current breast cancer research and legislation. MBCC members regularly meet with our legislators to advocate for their support of new bills that would help those living with and at risk of breast cancer back home here in Maine. The advocacy arm of MBCC also helps spread the word about new developments in the breast cancer world to those in our local communities.
Education: Through the MBCC website, www.mainebreastcancer.org, and appearances at local events, reliable information about breast cancer and quality care is disseminated. The MBCC website also features a comprehensive list of resources for those who are living with and at risk of breast cancer.
To access breast cancer support and resources through the Maine Breast Cancer Coalition or to find out more about becoming a member, please visit MBCC’s website at mainebreastcancer.org or contact Bethany Zell, MBCC president, at 207.498.1361 or bzell@carymed.org.
