The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation is known throughout the world as a leader in breast cancer endeavors that support research grants and education about the disease. The Foundation’s origin arose from the love between two sisters … one who was dying of breast cancer at the age of 36 (Susan Goodman Komen) and the other who made a promise to do what she could to eradicate the disease (Nancy Goodman Brinker). The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation was founded in 1982 by Nancy in memory of her sister, Susan.

The global objective of the organization is to advance research, education, screening, and treatment in the fight to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease. Dallas, Texas is the home of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation which proudly acknowledges over 75,000 volunteers in over 100 areas across the globe. The many U. S. and international Komen Affiliates handle several yearly events, one of which is the Komen Race for the Cure. In 2003, there were 112 races in the United States and two international races, and also a series of 5K runs/walks which was the largest series in the world. Recent annual participants number about 1.5 million people.

Through the Foundation, funding is provided for the Komen Foundation Award and Research Grant Program and the Komen Affiliate Grant Program, as well as, a National Toll-Free Breast Care Helpline which receives approximately 50,000 calls and 3500 emails from both men and women seeking information annually. Most of the funding received by the organization remains close to the community where it is raised, providing local outreach programs that positively impact the lives of millions of people. Because the Foundation is diligently watchful of the money it raises, less than 10% goes to administration. The rest goes to education (36%), screening (11%), treatment (6%), fundraising (16%) and its breast cancer research programs (22%). The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation was recognized as one of “America’s Best 100 Charities” in 2001.