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Ambassadors: Frequently Asked Questions

Interested in becoming an Ambassador with the Foundation but have a few questions?  We have answered the most common questions below. 

CancerCare Manitoba Foundation Ambassadors are on a team of advocates who help spread awareness of the Foundation, its mission and fundraising campaigns on social media platforms and within the community.

This team of ambassadors has each been personally touched by cancer; including those who are living through survivorship, a diagnosis or the passing of a loved one.

Ambassadors, in partnership with the Foundation, will share their personal connection to cancer along with Foundation content within their personal communities and Manitoba throughout their term.  

Ambassadors are on a one-year ‘term’ from March 1 – February 28 (29). As the end of February approaches, the Foundation will connect with each ambassador to see how they feel about moving forward.

 

Ambassadors have either submitted an Ambassador Interest Form or have been recommended by a Foundation staff member or an ambassador themselves. A team at the Foundation office will review the application, feedback and social media accounts of any prospective ambassadors.

All social media profiles will be set to “public” during specific campaign periods and can remain private outside of those time periods. Ambassadors are welcome to discuss concerns with the program managers at any time. 

This is an unpaid volunteer role with CancerCare Manitoba Foundation; however, all ambassadors will be provided with one Protect Your Tomorrows crewneck and t-shirt in a tagline of their choice (Tomorrows, Loved Ones or Passions) and a branded ball cap.

 

These items will be worn when filming campaign messages, in photography, attending an event on behalf of the Foundation and throughout the calendar year as a way to bring awareness to the brand and Foundation.  

As an Ambassador, you will connect like-minded individuals searching for opportunities to bring change for all Manitobans impacted by a cancer diagnosis – today and in the future, by:

 

    • Advocating and educating the public about CancerCare Manitoba Foundation and the critical nature of donors/donations have to changing the course of cancer in Manitoba, and their direct impact on local cancer research and improving patient care at CancerCare Manitoba.
    • Becoming a representative of the Foundation within the community.
    • Committing to participate and bring awareness to GivingTuesday and at least two Foundation fundraising campaigns.
    • Commit to sharing Foundation news and content on a regular basis which connects with you.

Have further questions about the program which aren’t listed here? Please do not hesitate to connect with us. 

SEND A QUESTION
TO THE FOUNDATION
submit an ambassador
interest form
VISIT THE AMBASSADOR
LANDING PAGE

Megan Falk, Digital Marketing Officer
mfalk@cancercare.mb.ca

Sharon Loewen, Development Manager
sloewen16@cancercare.mb.ca

 

Fundraise Your Way September 2024

Your support is truly remarkable!  Spring and summer 2024 was a flurry of activity in our province, with hundreds of fundraising events taking place all over Manitoba. Every donation, every step, and every action is a crucial contribution to a brighter future we all strive for. Let’s take a moment to reflect on the profound impact you’ve made fundraising your way since we last connected.

THANK YOU, MANITOBA!

Check out the photos in our album! You’ve celebrated milestones, welcomed new life, said heartfelt goodbyes, and cherished moments with family and friends. From hosting garage sales to organizing a variety of events, your support for CancerCare Manitoba is truly remarkable! Don’t forget to register and send us your photos and videos. Your efforts inspire the entire community!

GOLF!

You swung your clubs creating hope for those facing cancer across the province. Through your efforts, you raised substantial funds for research, clinical trials, and improved care for cancer patients and their families. What an incredible achievement! We are deeply grateful to the organizers who pour their hearts and souls into making these tournaments a success.
Thank you to the fantastic Manitoban golfers for your unwavering support and dedication!

Can’t find your name? Please check that you were registered as a fundraiser. Registration is how we can identify you and extend our official thanks! ❤️

COMMUNITY!

At the end of June, Gordie’s Wolf Pack truly amazed us! They demonstrated the incredible power of a community coming together to support one individual.

On June 27, Gordie and his family visited CancerCare Manitoba to meet Dr. Vanan and present a cheque for $14,000. This generous donation will support research into diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG), a challenging and currently incurable brain tumour that young Gordie is bravely battling. Gordie was the youngest Manitoban to undergo radiation and is now participating in a clinical trial. Access to these trials is crucial for providing cutting-edge treatments for children with the most difficult-to-treat cancers.

Thanks to your support and the exceptional care from CancerCare Manitoba, Gordie is thriving and recently graduated from kindergarten! To express their gratitude, Gordie’s family and his Wolf Pack raised funds to give other young cancer patients more tomorrows to create precious memories with their loved ones. Thank you to this incredible community of supporters!

BASEBALL, DANCE, SALES, YOGA, CONCERTS, HAIR SHAVES AND MORE!

Your imagination knows no bounds, and we are thrilled by it! Throughout the spring and summer of 2024, you fundraised your way—dancing, hitting the ball, playing music, shaving heads, organizing yoga classes, selling art and hair clips. Each of these efforts has radiated, created and multiplied love, passion, compassion, and most importantly, hope.

With your involvement, Manitobans fighting cancer can hold onto hope for a better outcome. Your support makes their difficult journey a little easier and brighter.

Thank you so much for everything you do!

Recently, we began asking you about your “why,” and we’ve received some truly heartfelt responses. Everyone has their own reasons for fundraising, and each one is valid, important, and inspiring. Check out these amazing individuals sharing their stories and the motivations behind their fundraisers. If you’d like, we’d love for you to share your “why” with us as well! We want to get to know you better!

LEMONADE STANDS FOR HOPE!

These incredible individuals poured their hearts, souls, AND lemonade!

Watch the video to find out the grand total raised this summer from over 270 stands across Manitoba.

 

Your fantastic lemonade stands turned this summer into a total lemon blast. It warms our hearts to see so many Manitobans involved and to witness how you’re teaching your kids the importance of community. 

THE LEMONADE STANDS PHOTO ALBUM
SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

WE APPRECIATE ALL OF YOU!

This year, many businesses joined in the FUNdraising, too! Winnipeg Kinsmen generously provided all the lemonade kits you received for free. Numerous daycares, Black Market Provisions, QUALICO, and Chimuk Landry Private Wealth hosted their own stands, and many other businesses supported the Heroes of Hope by donating and purchasing lemonade across Manitoba. You’re truly the zest of the community!

If your business name isn’t listed and you hosted a stand, please let us know so we can add you. We want everyone to see who their incredible supporters are!

THEY JUST KEPT DOINT IT!

The RHS Street Fest Lemonade Stand for Hope team has been hosting lemonade stands almost every weekend since the campaign began! They organized a total of five stands and raised an impressive $16,842 for cancer patients. What an inspiring dedication!

The girls stood strong against cancer in support of their moms battling this disease.

Watch the powerful story on CBC Manitoba.

THANK YOU TO ALL OF YOU CHANGE-MAKERS!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Join these fabulous fundraisers or host your own! To have your event added to the list, please register. Here are some upcoming fall and winter events:

Oct. 1: Super auto centres Pink Caps for Breast Cancer
Oct. 3: Beautiful You
Oct. 4: Kelvin High School Walk-a-thon
Oct. 10: Huskies Tackle Cancer Homecoming Game
Oct. 11: Winnipeg Blue Bombers Intercept Cancer
Oct. 20: Fall Into Fitness Wellness Expo
Oct. 31: A Pumpkin Promise in Memory of Marietta Okell
Nov. 16: Run, Noel 5.5!
Nov. 30: Cancer Fundraiser
Dec. 3: Winnipeg True North Sports & Entertainment Hockey Fights Cancer

GET INVOLVED

Manitobans host hundreds of fundraising events to make a difference for those in our province touched by cancer. Find one to support!

FIND AN EVENT

Give your passion a purpose and make a difference for Manitobans touched by cancer by hosting your own fundraiser!

REGISTER AN EVENT

CONTACT US

special.events@cancercare.mb.ca
204-784-2777

Kylie’s Story

Diagnosed with breast cancer at the young age of 27, Kylie spent the next two years living a very different life than she had anticipated. She had to navigate surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, amongst the many life challenges that come with having cancer as a young adult.

Thanks to the continued generosity of donors, Kylie and other young adults with cancer have access to critical physical and emotional support programs designed specifically for people aged 15 – 39, addressing the very unique challenges they face.

“When you get diagnosed with cancer at a young age, your life just stops. Friends are getting married and having babies. It’s very emotional and difficult,” said Kylie.

Having access to life changing donor-funded counselling services and a peer support group helped Kylie get through this difficult time in her life.

“I get a sense of belonging and relatability from the Young Adult Cancer Support (YACS) group,” she said. “I share what I’ve been through for myself, but also to hopefully help others feel less alone.”

In addition to accessing the mental health resources offered by CancerCare Manitoba’s Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) program, Kylie consulted with the AYA dietitian who guided her through the types of foods she would need to eat to nourish her body throughout months of treatment. She also sought guidance and support from the dedicated clinical nurse specialist for the AYA program.

Prior to being diagnosed with cancer, Kylie had returned to university to pursue her goal of becoming a teacher. Determined not to let the disease stop her, Kylie enrolled in two classes which she completed while undergoing chemotherapy. It was challenging, but she did it through determination, the help of friends and family and donors, ensuring the AYA program continues to assist in her journey.

Without donor support, the cancer experience for young adults like Kylie would be very different.

“Cancer profoundly affects every aspect of life for patients in this unique group, making access to comprehensive resources crucial for effective treatment and emotional support,” said Mackenzie Jansen, clinical nurse specialist for the AYA program. “In my role, I see firsthand how these donor-funded resources enhance patient care and outcomes.”

Thanks to generous donors, CancerCare Manitoba has one of the best and well recognized AYA programs in the country.

Kylie is now cancer-free and thanks to the services of the AYA program donors help fund, she is looking ahead to the future with a renewed sense of hope. 

“I’m different now. Cancer has changed me. I’m figuring out what parts of my old life I want to keep and what’s new for me on the horizon,” said Kylie. 

To celebrate, she recently took a much-anticipated trip to Greece. She is continuing with school and is looking forward to fulfilling her dream of becoming a teacher.

Committed to giving back to CancerCare Manitoba, Kylie has joined the AYA program as a patient partner where she provides feedback on services offered and connects with other young adults with cancer.

Without donor support, programs and services that address the diverse needs of youth and young adults with cancer would not be possible. Thank you.

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Fundraise Your Way April 2024

With over 300 fundraising events every year big and small there is so much good taking place to support CancerCare Manitoba and we want you to know about it. The collective total raised each year from community fundraisers averages close to $2 million. That is AMAZING! We mean it when we say you are making a difference. Your events make change happen; every donation moves us one step closer to beating cancer. Never underestimate the power of fundraising.

COMMUNITY FUNDRAISER SPOTLIGHT: Donna Mansfield, Killarney, MB

Donna Mansfield from Killarney, Manitoba represents the many community fundraisers throughout our province supporting CancerCare Manitoba Foundation (CCMF). Donna was instrumental in getting the Foundation added to the local donor’s choice listing, connecting the Foundation with the local paper and even making tribute envelopes available to those who wish to make donations in memory of loved ones. As she’s seen opportunities to let people know about CCMF, she’s taken them. We asked Donna why this was so important to her. 

“Well my late husband received such good care from CancerCare Manitoba, and I was surprised to learn that there were many people in my community who didn’t know that funds stay in the province to support CCMB when donated. I wanted to make sure my community members understood that it makes a real difference when funds support our local cancer authority and stay in Manitoba.”

Last summer when the opportunity to take part in Lemonade Stands for Hope (LSFH) came along Donna was one of the first to register a stand. After a summer of selling virtual cups of lemonade and hosting in-person stands with her daughter and local community kids, they ended up raising over $6000, making them the top earning stand of 2023. We asked Donna what she thought about LSFH and here’s what she shared.

“It was a great experience for me and my daughter. I was honestly surprised at how easy it was. I started by selling what I called virtual cups of lemonade. I simply picked up the phone and started calling people I knew and local businesses in the community and asked for donations toward our stand. The amount of people who were so willing to support us was amazing. I’d encourage anyone to not be afraid to ask others to support this cause. Some may say no and that’s ok, but most said yes and that’s how we were able to raise so much, with community support.”

In addition to bringing the local neighbourhood kids together, the stand also got a special visit from a wedding party following a Facebook post on the town’s page. The bride had lost her father to cancer and wanted to make sure they supported the stand on their special day in honour of him. 

“It was really special to see how this event brought people together. We’ve sadly all been touched by cancer in someway and this was an opportunity to help others. It was really very special,” said Donna.

Donna has advice for those thinking of hosting an event,

“People need to know about supporting our local cancer center. I don’t think enough people know about it. I was surprised how many people in my own community were confused about where funds go. I’m happy to raise funds that I know will stay in Manitoba and help my loved ones. If I can help spread the word I’m happy to do it. I think anyone can do that.”

WINTER COMMUNITY EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Every winter Manitoba shows up and you Fundraise Your Way in true Manitoba winter style.

This past winter was a bit of a strange one regarding the weather. From postponed hockey games due to blizzards, to venue changes due to thawing ice, nothing stopped our fundraising organizers, You are all amazing.

From hockey fights cancer games all over Manitoba, curling, ice fishing and ringette you give your passions a purpose and make a true difference.

See some of this past winters events in action in the event photo album. Check out upcoming spring and summer events through the event calendar. 

VIEW THE COMMUNITY EVENTS
PHOTO ALBUM
EVENT CALENDAR

HEROES OF HOPE

If you’re a teacher, coach, or know of young heroes in your life that want to fundraise for CancerCare Manitoba Foundation we’d love to help support them. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT HEROES OF HOPE

Our youngest philanthropists are heroes helping save lives with their fundraising and donations. Heroes of Hope receive a special certificate of appreciation in recognition of their compassion and effort. Nimmi Ramgotra has been going to the local Sikh temples for the last few years and collecting donations. Through Nimmi’s efforts she has had several young Heroes of Hope join her in handing out information at the temples she visits. You’re never to young to lend a hand and help others.

We are so grateful to all our Heroes of Hope. If you are interested in becoming a Hero of Hope let us know we’d love to hear from you.

CELEBRATIONS

We are always inspired by those who choose to celebrate life events by turning them into a way to fundraise for CCMF and honour others you know and love. From weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and more these celebrations are truly special. This past winter the Bawa’s decided to celebrate the upcoming arrival of baby Bawa by requesting donations for their baby shower. See how the Bawa’s used their celebration donation page to honour a friend, and celebrate the upcoming arrival of baby Bawa here.

If you have a celebration you want to turn into a fundraiser we’re here and ready to help you out. Thank you to all the amazing fundraisers who choose to celebrate their events by requesting donations. Your celebrations make such an impact for those we know and love touched by cancer. Thank you!

YOUR IMPACT

See the Impact Your Donations

Watch our new video to learn more about the impact your donation is making at CancerCare Manitoba.

Make sure to share with your friends and family!

WATCH NOW

BOOK THE MORE TOMORROWS SUMMER TEAM

Have our Protect Your Tomorrows Team at Your Summer Event!

Our summer team brings the fun all while learning about how to reduce your own risk of cancer. Are you interested in having our Protect Your Tomorrows team attend your event? Get your requests in soon as the summer schedule is filling up!

BOOK THE TEAM

GET INVOLVED

Manitobans host hundreds of fundraising events to make a difference for those in our province touched by cancer. Find one to support!

FIND AN EVENT

Give your passion a purpose and make a difference for Manitobans touched by cancer by hosting your own fundraiser!

REGISTER AN EVENT

CONTACT US

special.events@cancercare.mb.ca
204-784-2777

Sample Language for Your Will

Sample wording for a residual gift:

“I direct my trustee to pay and transfer a ____ % share of the rest and residue of my estate to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation (charitable registration # 88688 6746 RR0001).”

With a specific gift, you set a dollar amount to donate. You may prefer this option if you know the impact you want to make and the size of the gift that works for you.

Sample wording for a specific gift:

“I direct my trustee to pay the sum of $ ____ dollars to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation (charitable registration # 88688 6746 RR0001).”

Legal Name and Registration Number

When including a gift to CancerCare Manitoba Foundation in your will and other documents, it is extremely important that you use the correct legal name.

Since many charities have similar names, changing even one word in the name can lead to confusion. When planning your gift, please make sure you use our full legal name:

CancerCare Manitoba Foundation, Inc.

ON1160-675 McDermot Avenue
Winnipeg MB R3E 0V9

CRA Charitable Registration Number: 88688 6746 RR0001

See Your Impact

Watch the video below to find out how your fundraising efforts have impacted the lives of Manitobans with cancer.

Protect Your Tomorrows

For the 2 in 5 Manitobans who will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, it’s the moment everything changes.

It’s the moment you slow down and focus on the things that matter.
And it’s when you stop taking your tomorrows for granted.

Danica, Nahdoondoo, and Matt know the value of making small changes
in your everyday life to reduce your cancer risk.

Cancer has affected each of them and they know Protecting Your Tomorrows by nourishing your body, being
active, and practicing sun safety can dramatically reduce your risk of
developing cancer.

Danica encourages you to protect your tomorrows by nourishing your body.

Danica was just 27 years old when she was diagnosed with stage two Hodgkin lymphoma. “One of the biggest things an oncologist tells you when you are in cancer treatment is you must get your nutrition in. When I was diagnosed and looking for ways to nourish my body, I started eating more protein rich and whole foods.”

Today, Danica is cancer-free. Her journey inspired her to make healthy eating a priority and she uses her voice and her platforms to inspire others to do the same.

You can protect your tomorrows by eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Choose high fibre, whole grain, and enriched products. Eat seven to ten servings of fruits and vegetables each day, and choose dark green and orange fruits and vegetables. Opt for lower-fat milk products. Select leaner meats, poultry, and fish, as well as dried peas, beans, and lentils. Limit your alcohol consumption.

If all Manitobans started eating healthy today, we could prevent 1300 cancer cases in 2038. 

If all Manitobans maintained a healthy weight starting today, we could prevent 650 cancer cases in 2038.

Support Prevention Objectives

Nahdoondoo encourages you to protect your tomorrows by being active.

Nahdoondoo was 34 years old when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. “I struggled with mental fatigue and feeling drained after my diagnosis.” By making small changes, Nahdoondoo has been able to add movement and exercise into her days without sacrificing work.  She has more energy and is feeling positive about her future.

You can protect your tomorrows by being active. Regular exercise can reduce your risk of cancer. It can also reduce stress, increases energy levels and can improve your outlook on life. Staying active doesn’t need to mean running a marathon or spending hours at a gym. Take a walk once a day or choose the stairs instead of the elevator if you are able. Spend less time in front of the television or computer. Play actively with your kids. Walk, wheel or cycle for short trips.

There is strong evidence that physical activity protects against colon, endometrium and post-menopausal breast cancers. Evidence also suggests that physical activity can help prevent bladder, lung, liver, kidney, stomach, and esophagus cancers.

Matt encourages you to protect your tomorrows by practicing sun safety.

Matt has been living with skin cancer since his diagnosis at 24 years old. “I wish I could go back in time and recognize how easy it was to change my lifestyle to be more sun safe.” Matt is committed to making sure his young son is making good choices when it comes to the sun. “Practicing sun safety is a really easy way to balance living for tomorrow by making good choices today.”

You can protect yourself and your family from exposure to UV (ultraviolet) rays by covering up in the sun and wearing sunscreen. UV exposure can increase the risk for developing malignant melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer. Remember, even Manitoba’s abundant winter sunshine can have an effect, so follow these guidelines all year! Avoid the sun from 10am to 4pm and protect yourself during these times by seeking shade. Wear clothing to cover your arms and legs. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) about 30 minutes before you leave the house and reapply hourly or after swimming.

The number of new melanoma cases (the most serious form of skin cancer) diagnosed in Manitoba
is 20 times higher in 2021 than it was in the 1960s.

You can support cancer prevention activities at CancerCare Manitoba today.
Learn more about cancer prevention by visiting CancerCare Manitoba’s screening program website: cancerprevention.ca.

Support Prevention Objectives
cancerprevention.ca