Today, cancer is the second leading cause of death among children 14 years and younger. Fortunately, advancing treatment options continue to increase the survival rate of those affected by the condition. To boost these rates even higher, new treatments must be discovered through childhood cancer research. If this is a cause close to your heart, here are a few ways to support this vital research.

5 Ways to Contribute to Childhood Cancer Research

1. Donate Directly

Many nonprofit organizations provide support on both local and national levels. Some organizations focus specifically on raising money for childhood cancer research, while others may provide resources to support children and families affected by it.

Donating to a related nonprofit is one way to know your money is going directly to the cause. These charitable contributions are also usually tax-deductible.

2. Share Information on Social Media

Whether it’s an upcoming fundraising event or news about pediatric cancer, it’s always good to share this information with your friends on social media. Putting these matters upfront on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram is a simple way to raise awareness about the disease, support ongoing research needs, and encourage others to contribute.

3. Participate in a Charity Run

If you are looking for a way to stay active and support an important cause, consider signing up for an upcoming childhood cancer charity run. By gathering participants for races throughout a community, these events help raise awareness on the subject. Participants also typically pay entry fees and collect donations from sponsors to help support the organization that hosts the event.

4. Volunteer With a Local Organization

Caring volunteers often run local nonprofits that support childhood cancer research. If you are willing to give your time to the cause, you may be able to volunteer with them. For example, some may need general administrative duties, event management, outreach, and other activities.

5. Reach Out to Your Representative  

Find out if your local congressperson is part of the Childhood Cancer Caucus—a group that helps overcome legislative barriers within the pediatric cancer research community. If your congressperson is not part of the caucus, write or call their office and voice your interest that they participate in the cause.

If you would like to have a local impact on childhood cancer matters, consider helping Leaps of Love, Inc. in Highland, IL. Since 1992, this nonprofit has provided support for St. Louis-area families affected by pediatric cancer and brain tumors. With the help of community members like yourself, this organization has been able to launch impressive fundraising initiatives, host family retreats, organize informative events, and direct resources to those in need. To learn more about how you can donate to or volunteer with this charity, visit them online or call (618) 410-7212.