2022-2023
Annual Report
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Unite for HER, EIN 26-4444438.
A Message from the CEO
A Year of Growth, Impact, and Innovation
As we look back on the past twelve months, we are humbled by the incredible strides we have taken together in fulfilling our mission to serve and support those in need.
In 2023, we had the privilege of reaching and positively impacting the lives of over 5,300 individuals nationwide, thanks to the support of our generous community. It is a testament to the strength of unity that we proudly collaborated with over 80 partners from across the nation. Together, we harnessed the power of collective action to effect positive change in the lives of those we serve.
Our commitment to health equity remained steadfast, and we are proud to report that focused grants were instrumental in providing essential support to the most vulnerable members of our community. This year, we delivered a staggering 25,085 therapies to individuals, improving the well-being of those we serve.
We are truly stronger together. The unwavering support, trust, and dedication of our community have been the driving force behind our accomplishments. We are deeply grateful for the faith you have placed in us over the years, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.
With gratitude,
Sue Weldon
CEO, Unite for HER
At a Glance: Financial Report
Expenses
- Program Services & Outreach 87%
- Management & General 4%
- Fundraising 9%
Accomplishments & Impact
5,322
Members supported through Unite for HER Wellness Programs
9
New Hospital Partnerships
Over 80 total partnerships nationwide
37%
Percentage of members from underserved communities
61
Wellness events hosted this year
25,085
Integrative therapies provided to members this year
12
New Patient Recruiting Partnerships
545
members served through Empowered Living survivorship program pilot
Expanding to New Heights
This year welcomed the return of our in-person outreach events, hosting two in-person orientations in the Philadelphia region, as well as 53 virtual program orientations and six special wellness events.
- Thrive for breast cancer survivors
- Exhale for those living with metastatic breast cancer
- Shine for those diagnosed with ovarian cancer
Committed to Diversity and Inclusion
Dedicated to expanding access to our programming and services, this year we launched a new Spanish language Wellness Program with translated materials, a new full-time Spanish-speaking patient liaison, and regular Spanish language virtual programming. The Unite for HER staff also expanded to include additional roles in development, outreach, nutrition, and advisory roles to increase our capacity to serve.
In 2022, we also launched a new branding initiative, Unite for THEM, recognizing non-binary program members. Upon program registration, members can select the gender identity that matches their own and receive appropriate program materials reflecting their selection.
This year our outreach services and impact continued to expand, adding new hospital and healthcare recruiting partners in locations nationwide.
New Hospital Partnerships
New Recruiting Partnerships
Our commitment to health equity remained steadfast, and we are proud to report that focused grants were instrumental in providing essential support to the most vulnerable members of our community.
Notably, 37 percent of our members come from underserved communities, and over 30 percent of our members are from diverse backgrounds. We are deeply committed to ensuring that our services are accessible and inclusive, reflecting the rich tapestry of our society.
- Project Lift HER Up
Funded by a grant from Gilead Sciences, Project Lift HER Up aimed to combat health inequities for Black breast cancer patients and supported 550 Black patients diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer nationwide. Following the completion of their one-year passport, over 85 percent of program participants reported an improvement in side effects and their quality of life.
- Longwood Foundation
In 2022 we received a grant from the prestigious Longwood Foundation to expand our programming and provide services for 200 underserved and underrepresented breast cancer patients in Delaware.
Empowered Living Survivorship Program Pilot
As awareness of our programming grew, demand for patients of all diagnosis dates and stages became increasingly apparent. To ensure that no patient was left behind, the Empowered Living survivorship program was created to provide hands-on education, support, virtual live events, and free resources.
This new program was launched in the spring of 2023 and delivered directly to the homes of 545 members.
“I wish I had the knowledge from the initial orientation meeting when I was [first] diagnosed. It would have helped me deal with the biopsies, diagnostic tests, and related stressors prior to my surgery better. Nonetheless, UFH has helped me deal with my recovery through their therapies, speaker series, sessions, passport, and definitely the care box! Thank you!”
“This is a fantastic program! I am so very grateful for it. I did the CSA for two weeks and absolutely loved it. Currently I’m in one of the support groups. It helps me to feel not alone.”
“I’m grateful for this opportunity because having to worry about food during treatment is a big stress for me. When I was on an unpaid medical leave from work for a year during my active treatment, I would starve just so I had money for transportation to my appointments and pay my medical bills. Being able to choose food without worrying will help me tremendously. No one deserves to feel this helpless. Thank you for your program.”
“The therapies have reduced my stress, improved my healthy eating habits, and increased my social life via theability to go out daily!”
“The therapies have helped me to afford programs that have helped my health recovery. The gift cards keep me focused on eating healthy. I could not afford these programs without the help of Unite for HER. Thank you for all that you do.”
On the National Stage
In December 2022 we proudly presented our first national abstract and poster at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, showcasing Unite for HER’s profound impact on overall outcomes of integrative care during treatment and beyond. This achievement underscores the power of our collective efforts and the positive change we bring to individuals’ lives.
Andac-Jones, E., Gonzalo, M., Kelly, G., Weldon, S. Impact of Integrative Therapies on Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer. Poster presentation. San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2022.
Special Thanks to our National Sponsors
Committed to Education
Our commitment to education and empowerment remained unwavering. Throughout the year, we hosted over 35 educational events, introduced multiple new special digital series, and cultivated a supportive community along the way.
“The Her Speaker Series and Ask The Experts [helped me to] learn so much– how to take care of your whole body, advocate for yourself with tools, and everything you need to know about breast cancer and the direction of research and medicine. Unite for HER and the medical community is a perfect marriage in cancer care. If a person feels powerless, once they go the UFH program, they will no longer be powerless.” Tiffany
Virtual educational events hosted this fiscal year
Total registrants of educational events this fiscal year
Total reach of educational social media content
Food for Thought is a new digital educational series that dives into the power of nutrition. Led by our team of Registered Dietitians, this free program educates members and the public through live virtual cooking classes and digital media.
Potty Talk is a new special digital series that features licensed medical and wellness experts on gastrointestinal issues and anxiety associated with treatment. Members attended live digital seminars and question and answer sessions to review commmon side effects, discuss coping strategies, and answer personal questions.
Fostering a Caring Community
We are truly stronger together. Our members are the driving force behind our work, and we are grateful for the support of our community that enable us to serve each member with compassion and dignity.
Signature Fundraising Events
This year was a joyous return to in-person signature events, shattering previous attendance and fundraising records.
Together, each of these events moved our mission forward by educating the community about health living practices, increasing awareness of our mission and services, and raising critical funds to support our program services.
Students Unite in Pink and Teal
This year, 79 student groups across the country participated in the Students Unite for HER program, raising funds and hosting Pink & Teal events to educate the community about healthy living practices and the programming of Unite for HER.
2022-2023 Honorees
The unwavering efforts of these partners have helped us to move the mission and programming of Unite for HER forward in ways that have been life-changing for those with breast and ovarian cancers.
Corporate Partner Award
Daiichi-Sankyo
Daiichi-Sankyo has been “by our side” for the past two years as we moved to the national stage, trusting, building, relationships, and advocating for our programming and mission. They are an outstanding partner in every sense of the word, dedicated to positively impacting patients’ lives.
Community Partner Award
Volkswagen Northeast Region
VW has been a celebrated force when it comes to advocating for those affected by breast cancer. Witnessing how our programming has impacted their own employees inspired them to help us to move nationwide, prioritizing those in undersupported cities. The support of VW was critical in our pilot program as we positioned ourselves for national expansion.
Spirit of Service Award
Colleen Conor
There are not enough words to capture the spirit, compassion, and commitment Colleen has brought to the staff of Unite for HER. Her talent and expertise in development have allowed us to expand to the national stage, and we would not be where we are today without her work. Her love of the UFH community and committment is inspiring, and she is truly a woman of excellence, dedicated to the service of others.
Student Volunteer Award
Isabella Guardiola
Isabella was interested to volunteer after learning about Unite for HER from a close family member who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. Inspired to “help make a difference as others go through treatment,” Isabella faithfully dedicates her time each week to help assemble boxes and assist around the office. Over the course of her time, she has assembled hundreds of packages for members!
What Our Members Say
The impact of our programming is profound, and we are grateful for the support of our community that has enabled us to serve over 5,300 members this year.
“Unite for HER understands exactly what you are going through. The Wellness Program helped me mentally, physically, and emotionally.” Crystal
Media Highlights
Abington Senior High School
Apex Lacrosse
Avon Grove Elementary
Beaumont Elementary School
Beck Middle School
Berks Catholic High School
Bishop Shanahan High School
Boyertown Junior High East
Brandywine School of Early Learning
Crooked Billet Elementary School
Dance For HER
Downingtown East High School
Downingtown STEM Academy
Fallbrook Pop Warner (Fallbrook, CA)
Fanny Pack Swim Club
Fern Hill Elementary
Garnet Valley High School
General Nash Elementary School
George Washington High School
Germantown Academy
Goucher College
Great Valley School District
Gulph Elementary School
Gwynedd Mercy Academy High School
Hamilton West High School
Hatboro Horsham School District
Henderson High School
Hillsdale Elementary School
Holy Trinity School
Indian Valley Middle School
Kennett High School
Lasalle College High School
Main Street Baseball Club
Marple Newtown
MaST Community Charter School
Mastery Charter School
Monroe Township High School
Mt. Laurel Basketball Association
Neshaminy High School
Norchester Red Knights
North Wales Elementary School
Octorara Area School District
Our Lady of Mercy Academy
Our Lady of Mercy Academy
Owen J. Roberts Middle School
Owen J. Roberts School District
Penn Fusion Club
Penn State Abington
Penncrest High School
Phoenixville School District
E.N. Pierce Middle School
Pittman High School
Prospect Park School
Radnor Elementary School
Richboro Elementary School
Rowan University
Bayard Rustin High School
Saliesianum School
Sellersville Elementary School
Shady Grove Elementary School
Souderton Area School District
Spike for HER
Springfield ROFO Baseball Tournament
St George’s School
St. Agnes
St. Albans Swim Club
St. George’s School, Middletown, Rhode Island
Strath Haven High School
Thurgood Marshall Elementary School
Unionville High School
University of Alaska Anchorage
University of Scranton
Upper Moreland
Ursinus College
Villanova
West Chester East High School
West Chester University
Westtown School
William Paterson University
United to Help Empower and Restore
We are grateful for the gifts of time, talent, and financial contributions that move our mission forward. Click below to view our donor list, including both monetary and in-kind donations received during the fiscal year, July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023.
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