Around 62,000 adults are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in America every year. The 5-year survival rate is just 11%, making it the 4th leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Charities around the world are now taking action to combat this deadly disease and provide hope for pancreatic cancer patients. So we had to ask: What are the best charities that fight pancreatic cancer?

The best charities that fight pancreatic cancer are the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and the Lustgarten Foundation. Charities such as the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation and the Patient Access Network Foundation provide vital financial assistance to low-income pancreatic cancer patients. 

Whether you want to fund pancreatic cancer research in the hope of finding a cure, advocate for better laws that ensure every patient has access to appropriate healthcare, or ensure that every patient is provided with the support they need to cope with their diagnosis, there is a charity for you. Keep reading to learn more about what the best charities that fight pancreatic cancer are all about, how they work, and what your best way would be to make a contribution.

Here’s What All the Best Charities That Fight Pancreatic Cancer Have in Common

The charities on this list were chosen based on their mission, impact and transparency ratings, and achievements. They operate all over America, working to eradicate the suffering caused by pancreatic cancer. 

Many of the charities on this list focus their efforts on funding promising research studies to improve early detection methods and eventually find a cure for pancreatic cancer. Others focus their attention on ensuring every pancreatic cancer patient has access to long-term support. Yet they all share the same goal; to provide hope to pancreatic cancer patients across America. 

These Are the 9 Best Charities That Fight Pancreatic Cancer in 2023

Below are our favorite charities that fight pancreatic cancer:

• Pancreatic Cancer Action Network
• Lustgarten Foundation
• Seena Magowitz Foundation
• American Cancer Society
• National Pancreas Foundation
• Patient Access Network Foundation
• Prevent Cancer Foundation
• National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation
• Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer

(At the end of this article we’ll also share our six-step approach on how you can select the best charity to support.)

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network: Facing Pancreatic Cancer Head-on

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network was founded in 1999 by Pamela Acosta Marquardt, Paula Kim, and Terry Lierman, to raise funds for pancreatic cancer research. Today, the charity is a nationwide network supporting the pancreatic cancer patient community. 

Their impact and transparency ratings: The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network holds the Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator.

“To create a world in which all patients with pancreatic cancer will thrive.”

Pancreatic Cancer Action Network

What they do: The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network offers a comprehensive support service to people suffering from pancreatic cancer. They do this through their helpline, where patients can get access to information resources and peer-to peer-support. The charity also researches and funds clinical trials and studies into early detection techniques and potential treatments for pancreatic cancer. On a national level, they work to influence members of Congress to make pancreatic cancer research a priority. 

What they’ve achieved: Since their founding, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network has invested more than $149 million into pancreatic cancer research. They have also boosted National Cancer Institute funding for pancreatic cancer by 970%. Their advocacy efforts have led to the development of a $15 million Pancreatic Cancer Research Program at the Department of Defense and a 900% increase in federal funding for the disease. 

Ways to contribute: You can donate directly to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network through their website. You can also support the charity by getting involved in their PanCan Purple Stride campaign or by volunteering.

Lustgarten Foundation: Empowering Research. Inspiring Hope

The Lustgarten Foundation was founded in 1998 by Marc Lustgarten to fund pancreatic research after he became frustrated at the lack of treatments and support available. Today, the charity is the largest private funder of preeminent pancreatic cancer researchers in the world. 

Their impact and transparency ratings: The Lustgarten Foundation holds the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar, as well as a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator.

“Driving bold, innovative research to transform pancreatic cancer into a curable disease.”

Lustgarten Foundation

What they do: The Lustgarten Foundation funds preeminent pancreatic cancer research studies through their research grants. Their Lustgarten Advancing Breakthrough Science Program increases collaboration between world-renowned pancreatic cancer research scientists to advance diagnostic and treatment technologies at their dedicated institutes. The charity also offers a comprehensive online list of organizations and services, as well as treatment options, to support patients with pancreatic cancer. 

What they’ve achieved: Since their inception, the Lustgarten Foundation has invested nearly $225 million into promising clinical trials, grant programs, and research initiatives for pancreatic cancer. This vital work has led to the development of a blood test that can detect multiple cancers early, including pancreatic cancer. Their researchers have also demonstrated that computers can be trained to detect pancreatic tumors in CT scans, which is the first major milestone toward employing artificial intelligence in early detection. 

Ways to contribute: You can donate directly to the Lustgarten Foundation through their website. You can also support the charity by getting involved in their Walk for Research fundraising events or by setting up your own fundraiser. 

Seena Magowitz Foundation: The Face and Voice of Pancreatic Cancer

The Seena Magowitz Foundation was founded in 2001 by Roger Magowitz to fund pancreatic cancer research after his mum was diagnosed with the disease. Today, the charity empowers the public with knowledge of pancreatic cancer and funds innovative research to find a cure. 

Their impact and transparency ratings: The Seena Magowitz Foundation holds the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. The charity has yet to be scored by Charity Navigator.

“Harnessing collective synergy to defeat pancreatic cancer.”

Seena Magowitz Foundation

What they do: The Seena Magowitz Foundation funds clinical trials and pilot studies to develop innovative pancreatic cancer treatments. The charity then shares the latest research results with healthcare professionals and the public via their Pancreatic Cancer Podcast. In addition, the charity works to raise awareness of the disease by acting as a web-based information resource on the symptoms of pancreatic cancer, as well as risk factors and the types of treatment available. 

What they’ve achieved: Since its founding, the Seena Magowitz Foundation has raised around $12 million for researchers and healthcare workers to run clinical trials and test promising drugs for pancreatic cancer. A clinical trial performed by TGen-HonorHealth, and funded by the Seena Magowitz Foundation, has seen tumor shrinkage in 71% of patients with late-stage pancreatic cancer. 

Ways to contribute: You can donate directly to the Seena Magowitz Foundation through their website. You can also support the charity by becoming a Shepherd of Hope or by shopping through AmazonSmile.

American Cancer Society: Attacking Cancer from Every Angle

The American Cancer Society was founded in 1913 by 10 doctors to raise public awareness of cancer. Today, the charity is a nationwide, community-based organization dedicated to eliminating all types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. 

Their impact and transparency ratings: The American Cancer Society holds the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. The charity has yet to be scored by Charity Navigator. 

“To save lives, celebrate lives, and lead the fight for a world without cancer.”

American Cancer Society

What they do: The American Cancer Society funds life-saving research into all forms of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. Through their American Cancer Society Action Network, the charity engages with elected officials to increase cancer prevention funding and improve access to healthcare for all Americans. In addition, the charity offers cancer patient support through their 24-hour helpline. Through their community program services, the charity provides transport assistance, treatment referrals, and an online community platform for cancer patients. 

What they’ve achieved: Since their founding, the American Cancer Society has invested more than $5 billion into cancer research. This includes 36 grants for pancreatic cancer research and 65 grants for cancer disparity studies. The essential work of the charity has significantly contributed to the 29% drop in the overall cancer death rate between 1991 and 2017 in America.

Ways to contribute: You can donate directly to the American Cancer Society through their website. You can also support the charity by becoming an advocate or by volunteering.

National Pancreas Foundation: Eradicating Pancreatic Disease

The National Pancreas Foundation was founded in 1997 by Patter Birsic and Jane Holt to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for people suffering from pancreatic cancer. Today, the charity is the only organization dedicated to patients who are suffering from all forms of pancreas disease, including cancer. 

Their impact and transparency ratings: According to their financial report, the National Pancreas Foundation spent 93.9% of their expenditure on charitable programs and 2% on fundraising expenses. 

“Providing hope for those suffering from pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer through research, advocacy, and support.”

National Pancreas Foundation

What they do: The National Pancreas Foundation funds research studies into the diagnosis and treatment of pancreatic cancer and other related diseases. Through their Centers of Excellence, the charity helps patients find specialized support as well as providing pain management, nutritional support, and psychosocial counseling services. In addition, their Clinical Trials Resource Center is the leading publisher of information on clinical trials for patients and healthcare professionals in America. 

What they’ve achieved: Since their inception, the National Pancreas Foundation has given over $4 million to 127 groundbreaking research studies into all forms of pancreatic disease, including cancer. Their achievements have included the development of molecular testing which allows pancreatic disease to be detected early. The charity now runs over 140 healthcare facilities across America that are focused on improving the lives of pancreatic cancer patients. 

Ways to contribute: You can donate directly to the National Pancreas Foundation through their website. You can also support the charity by becoming a volunteer for their Camp Hope program or you can get involved in their advocacy efforts by writing to your legislator. 

Patient Access Network Foundation: Providing Financial Medical Assistance

The Patient Access Network Foundation (PAN) was founded in 2004 by a group of passionate individuals to provide financial medical assistance to people suffering from debilitating conditions, including pancreatic cancer. Today, the charity remains dedicated to its mission to ensure every patient has access to medical care across America.

Their impact and transparency ratings: The Patient Access Network Foundation holds the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. The charity also has a 100% Encompass rating for finance & accountability from Charity Navigator. 

“We envision a nation in which everyone can get the healthcare they need.”

Patient Access Network Foundation

What they do: The Patient Access Network Foundation provides financial assistance to uninsured people with life-threatening chronic conditions, including pancreatic cancer. Their innovative FundFinder app helps users find the right funding and receive notifications when it is available. The charity also collaborates with other like-minded organizations to advocate for a critical health reform that will ensure all patients have access to affordable healthcare.

What they’ve achieved: To date, the Patient Access Network Foundation has provided $4 billion in financial grants to over 1 million patients, including those with pancreatic cancer. Their FundFinder app has now surpassed 50,000 users. In 2020, the charity answered 408,022 calls from patients, providers, and caregivers, and processed 1,011,581 claims for uninsured individuals. The charity’s network now consists of 36,351 healthcare providers and pharmacies. 

Ways to contribute: You can donate directly to the Patient Access Network Foundation through their website. You can also support the charity by becoming an advocate or by starting your own fundraiser. 

Prevent Cancer Foundation: Stop Cancer Before it Starts

The Prevent Cancer Foundation was founded in 1985 by Carolyn Aldige to fund research into cancer prevention after her father suffered from the disease. Today, the charity is the only non-profit in America solely dedicated to the prevention and detection of all types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer.  

Their impact and transparency ratings: The Prevent Cancer Foundation holds the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 3-star rating from Charity Navigator. 

“Saving lives across all populations through cancer prevention and early detection.”

Prevent Cancer Foundation

What they do: The Prevent Cancer Foundation works with governments and policyholders to ensure all cancer patients have access to healthcare, and that adequate funding is invested into all types of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. They also offer funding grants to early-career scientists in the field of cancer research and invest in numerous campaigns to educate the public on healthy lifestyle choices that can reduce the risk of cancer. 

What they’ve achieved: To date, the Prevent Cancer Foundation has invested nearly $142 million into research, education, outreach, and advocacy for cancer prevention. Over the years, they have funded over 550 peer-reviewed grants and fellowships at more than 150 leading medical institutes in America. This research has included the development of machine learning software to identify people at risk of developing pancreatic cancer. 

Ways to contribute: You can donate directly to the Prevent Cancer Foundation through their website. You can also support the charity by joining their advocacy efforts or by volunteering. 

National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation: Providing Unwavering Support

The National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation was founded in 2009 by Rhonda Williams after one of her own family members was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Today, the charity provides vital support to patients and their families who have been affected by the disease. 

Their impact and transparency ratings: The National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation holds the Bronze Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. The charity also has a 65% Encompass rating for finance & accountability from Charity Navigator.  

“To preserve life, provide personal support, and assistance to people diagnosed or at high risk for pancreatic cancer.”

National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation

What they do: The National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation offers financial assistance grants to pancreatic cancer patients during treatment. They also provide research grants to scientists studying alternative therapies. In addition, the charity offers personalized counseling sessions and information on local hospital services via their Pancreatic Cancer Advocacy Helpline. 

What they’ve achieved: Since their founding, the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation has provided over $1.3 million in support to pancreatic cancer patients. Since 2020, they have offered over $340,000 in financial support to 406 families across America. 

Ways to contribute: You can donate directly to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation through their website. You can also support the charity by shopping through AmazonSmile or by creating your own fundraiser. 

Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer: Sharing Knowledge to Beat Pancreatic Cancer

Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer was founded in 2014 by Anne Glauber after she became frustrated at the lack of available information when she was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Today, the charity is a comprehensive online portal designed to share the latest updates on pancreatic cancer treatments. 

Their impact and transparency ratings: Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer holds the Gold Seal of Transparency from GuideStar. The charity has yet to be scored by Charity Navigator.

“We are an unprecedented platform that shares fast-breaking information on potentially life-saving pancreatic cancer treatments and clinical trials.”

Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer

What they do: Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer informs patients, caregivers, scientists, and doctors of the latest potential treatments and promising clinical trials for pancreatic cancer through their online information platform. Their Resource Library contains guidance on support services, nutritional advice, and financial assistance for pancreatic cancer patients. In collaboration with Inspire, the charity has also launched Pancreatic Cancer Connections which is an online community where patients can share their feelings and challenges with other people facing the same disease. 

What they’ve achieved: To date, the Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer online platform has had 600,000 visitors and 1.6 million page views. In 2016, Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer joined with 95 like-minded organizations to launch the World Pancreatic Cancer Coalition to raise awareness and advance research into pancreatic cancer. Their community now consists of over 2,600 patients, advocates, and researchers who are passionate about raising awareness of the disease. 

Ways to contribute: You can donate directly to Let’s Win! Pancreatic Cancer through their website. You can also stay up-to-date with new developments and contact the charity through their social media pages. 

How Can You Select the Best Charities to Support?

The charities on the list are, we deem, the best charities that fight pancreatic cancer. However, you may have a particular charity you want to support. Let’s look at what you can do to ensure your contribution has the most significant impact.

• Check out the charity website. Charities that are worthy of your donations are transparent in their mission and their figures. Familiarize yourself with their history, mission, and values. Their website usually is the best place to start.
• Identify the charity’s mission. Without a goal, the charity is likely to fail. If the charity’s mission isn’t clear, it’s probably worth looking for a charity that does have a clear mission. 
• Check if the charity has measurable goals. An effective charity has clear goals. You want to know your donation will help the charity reach its goals. But if it doesn’t have targets, it’s likely to fail or squander your gift. The charity should be able to account for its spending and supply evidence of the work they do.
• Assess the successes or goals the charity has achieved. You wouldn’t invest in a business if it kept missing its targets. In the same way, charities are like this too. If no one is assessing a charity’s progress in reaching its targets, the chances are they’re not making a substantial positive change.
• Check the charity’s financials and stats. Trustworthy organizations will publish financial statements and reports each year. Some might be exempt from having to do so, but they should be able to provide them to public members who are interested in donating.
• Locate sources who work with or benefit from the charity. Word of mouth and first-hand experience of a charity’s work lets you know the charity’s quality. If you’re able to do so, check out the charity for yourself or speak to someone familiar with it. This way, your donation will go to the right place. 

How Can You Best Support These Charities?

After you’ve made your decision, it’s time for you to decide on how you’d like to help the charities you’ve chosen. Check how you can help – each charity runs specific programs that have unique aims. Find out what the aim of such programs is and whether they are right for you. 

Here are a few ways you can help your chosen charity:

• Donate money. You can find donation pages on the website of most charities. Your donation can be a one-time payment, or you can set it to be deducted regularly at different intervals. You can mostly pay via credit card, but some charities also take PayPal or Bitcoin payments.
• Buy their official merchandise. The charities can also raise money by selling merchandise. So, you can support them by buying the mugs, shirts, caps, pens, pencils, and any other such items they may be selling. Ideally, you should buy as much as you can to share and spread the word about the charity’s activities.
• Donate a percentage of your online purchases. If you bought anything on sites like Amazon lately, you’d find a prompt asking you to donate to your favorite charities through their Amazon Smile program. You can set this up so that your chosen charities will get a fraction of your online purchases.
• Engage in volunteer work. As you’ve seen from our descriptions above, some charities engage in a lot of local and grassroots programs. You can help by taking on and organizing the program in your local area.
• Help their fundraising efforts. You can spread the word about the charity in your workplace, school, church, etc., and hold creative fundraising drives on social media or offline within your small circles.
• Share their stories. Most charities have compelling stories that you can share with your audience to attract more people to the cause.

Final Thoughts

Now it is up to you to select the charity that resonates most with you. And whichever charity you end up choosing and contributing to, we are sure that they will immensely appreciate your support. Hopefully, the information within this article has made this selection process a bit easier for you to support charities dedicated to fighting pancreatic cancer – based on the causes that matter most to you.

Stay impactful,

PS: Finally, I want to leave you with a thought-provoking TED talk from Dan Pallotta, a leading philanthropic activist and fundraiser, about what is wrong with the way we think about charities – and what we can do about it:

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