Canadian Cancer Society

The Canadian Cancer Society is a volunteer-based organization which seeks to eradicate cancer and to enhance the quality of life of those suffering from it.

The Society was formed in 1938 in order to educate Canadians about the early-warning signs of the disease, because prior to that time, many people did not seek medical help until their cancer had advanced past a treatable stage. Since its founding, the society has been granted royal patronage by the Canadian Sovereign, currently Elizabeth II.

The Society focuses its efforts and its financial resources in these areas:
 * It funds research programs. The money raised by the Society is allocated through a review process to research programs across Canada.
 * It advocates for social and political changes which will result in fewer deaths from cancer. For instance, the Society has been active in the drive to eliminate cigarette smoke from areas where people gather.
 * Through prevention, it seeks to educate people on healthy lifestyle choices which will reduce the incidence of cancer.
 * It provides information on issues surrounding cancer and wellness, which allow people to make informed choices.
 * It offers support in the form of individual and group programs for cancer victims, caregivers, family, and friends.

In a 2005 audit by KPMG, the Society reported a revenue of $150,718,000 CAD. A breakdown of disbursements shows 28% of the Society's revenues going to fund research, 17% to provide support for people living with cancer, 7% to pay for information campaigns, 6% to fund prevention, and 2% to provide advocacy. Fundraising consumes 27% of the Society's revenue, and 6% is given over to management costs.