Does the money I raise and donate to VBCF stay in Virginia?
Yes. All funds donated to VBCF are used to provide FREE educational materials and breast cancer resources to individuals and groups in Virginia. VBCF provides Virginians with accurate, up-to-date information on breast cancer early detection, diagnosis, treatment, research, legislation, and survivorship.
Is VBCF a Better Business Bureau (BBB) accredited charity?
Yes. The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation is a BBB accredited Charity Seal Holder and meets the BBB’s 20 Standards of Accountability.
Can VBCF provide education materials for my event?
Yes, we would be happy to provide FREE educational materials for your event. Requests can be made on the “Fundraising Event” application.
Does VBCF fund breast cancer research?
VBCF does not directly fund breast cancer research. However, we advocate for state and national funding for breast cancer research, including increased funding for the Department of Defense Breast Cancer Research Program (DOD BCRP) and the state’s cancer centers at Virginia Commonwealth University and the University of Virginia. The DOD BCRP is widely viewed as an innovative, and efficient medical research model and has produced extraordinary results. Since the program’s inception in 1993, Virginia research institutions have received over $49 million in funding.
Does VBCF provide free mammograms?
VBCF funds mammograms and other diagnostic services in targeted areas through our Screening and Diagnostic Services Fund. In parts of the state not covered by this fund, we connect Virginians with the Virginia Department of Health’s “Every Woman’s Life” program that helps uninsured, low income women gain access to free breast and cervical cancer screening services. VBCF also offers a Newly Diagnosed Support Kit with detailed information about local support groups, patient navigator services, financial resources, clinical trials and more.
Is VBCF affiliated with the Susan G. Komen foundation or other national breast cancer organization?
No, VBCF is not affiliated with the Komen Foundation or other national breast cancer organizations. All funds donated to VBCF stay in Virginia to help Virginians. VBCF was founded because no other organization existed in VA that was devoted solely to representing the needs of individuals and their families affected by breast cancer. In February 1991, five women met in a support group and decided to band together to fight the disease. VBCF was incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1992. VBCF works in partnership with other breast cancer organizations to improve breast cancer policies and provide access to education and resources.
