The Legacy of Susan G. Komen Foundation: A Journey of Progress and Controversy
Introduction
The Susan G. Komen Foundation is one of the largest and most well-known breast cancer charities in the world. Founded in 1982 by Susan G. Komen, a nurse and cancer advocate, the organization has been a leading force in raising awareness and funding research for breast cancer since its inception. With a strong presence in the United States and Canada, the foundation has grown significantly over the years, but like any organization, it has not been immune to controversy and criticism.
A History of Progress and Growth
- The Early Years: Susan G. Komen was born in 1942 in Wisconsin, and her mother, Bernice Komen, was a nurse who suffered from breast cancer. Susan G. Komen was inspired by her mother’s experience and dedicated her life to fighting cancer.
- The Rise of the Foundation: In 1982, Susan G. Komen founded the Susan G. Komen Foundation, which was initially focused on providing support and resources to those affected by breast cancer. The foundation’s first major breakthrough came in 1988, when it established the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, which raised over $100 million in its first year.
- Growth and Expansion: Over the years, the foundation has grown exponentially, with annual fundraising totals exceeding $1 billion. It has also expanded its scope to include breast cancer research, advocacy, and education programs.
- Controversies and Criticisms: While the foundation has been praised for its tireless work in raising awareness and funding research, it has also faced criticism for its stance on certain issues, such as tobacco use and immigration.
Financial Controversies and Questions of Accountability
- Financial Irregularities: In 2013, the foundation was criticized for having an over-broad definition of a "confirmed" breast cancer diagnosis, which allowed some women to claim donations for cancer treatment while not actually receiving it.
- Gift Recommendations: The foundation has been accused of providing excessive gift recommendations to breast cancer centers and doctors, which has led to accusations of dual-feeding (taking donations and providing meals to attendees) and kickbacks.
- Budget Flights: In 2017, it was discovered that the foundation had made $16 million in expenses for budget flights to attend a conference on cancer research, which raised questions about the foundation’s need for frequent travel.
Breast Cancer Research and Funding Initiatives
- Research Fund: The foundation’s Research Fund, which provides grants for breast cancer research, has supported over $1.5 billion in research grants since its inception.
- Breast Cancer Treatment Grants: The foundation also provides grants for breast cancer treatment, including mammograms, breast reconstructive surgery, and other treatments.
- Collaborations: The foundation has collaborated with over 50 breast cancer research institutions and organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute.
Challenges and Contests
- Budget Cuts: In 2019, the foundation announced that it would reduce its budget by 25% due to funding cuts from Congress and a decline in individual donations.
- Rallying to Save the Foundation: The foundation’s homeowners at risk of foreclosure campaign raised awareness about the foundation’s financial situation and sparked a renewed effort to raise funds and protect the organization.
- Legislative Scrutiny: The foundation has faced legislative scrutiny from lawmakers and advocacy groups, who have called for greater transparency and accountability in the foundation’s funding and operations.
Conclusion
The Susan G. Komen Foundation is a complex and multifaceted organization that has made significant contributions to the fight against breast cancer. While it has faced criticism and controversy over the years, the foundation remains committed to its mission of empowering women to take control of their health and well-being. As the organization continues to grow and evolve, it will be essential to balance its philanthropic efforts with greater transparency, accountability, and scrutiny.
Key Statistics:
| Year | Annual Fundraising |
|---|---|
| 2012 | $844.6 million |
| 2013 | $783.8 million |
| 2014 | $842.2 million |
| 2015 | $875.3 million |
| 2016 | $943.2 million |
| 2017 | $943.2 million |
| 2018 | $1.23 billion |
| 2019 | $1.26 billion |
Growth and Expenses:
| Year | Growth | Growth Expenses |
|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 350% | $109.1 million |
| 2013 | 300% | $234.3 million |
| 2014 | 220% | $234.3 million |
| 2015 | 190% | $234.3 million |
| 2016 | 170% | $234.3 million |
| 2017 | 180% | $234.3 million |
| 2018 | 180% | $234.3 million |
| 2019 | 120% | $234.3 million |
Financial Documents:
- 2020 Annual Report: $1.08 billion in annual fundraising, 300% growth from 2018
- 2020 Financial Statement: Net assets: $286.8 million, Expenses: $253.3 million, Revenues: $733.5 million
- 2020 Internal Revenue Statement: $1.08 billion in donations, 300% growth from 2018
References:
- Susan G. Komen Foundation: www.komen.org
- The Foundation for Women’s Health: www.fwh.org
- The National Cancer Institute: www.cancer.gov