We are thrilled to introduce our first ever Capital Region American Cancer Society Associate Board of Ambassadors (ABOA)! This group is made up of young, innovative, passionate volunteers, all with differing backgrounds, brought together by one common goal: to defeat cancer.
Our ABOA really hit the ground running in 2019 and has set their sights high on what they want to accomplish – you’ll be hearing a lot more from them soon!
In the mean time I wanted to share with you the “why” behind one of our ABOA members, Chris Onorato, who joined our team:
Cancer. Six letters that carry far too much power. They strike fear into far too many and have done so for far too long. It’s a word that has stolen mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters and the dearest of friends from us all. But as I’ve recently learned from my very early experience with the American Cancer Society’s Associate Board of Ambassadors, cancer is also a word that unites. It creates a bond stronger than the despicable disease itself.
I am among the very fortunate. I do not have cancer. I’ve never had cancer. And while family members have received the devastating diagnosis, cancer has not won. But even with all that luck, if you will, I’ve recently been compelled to do even the little bit I can to help raise money, lift spirits and show that six letters are destined to become less powerful by the day.
From a distance, I’ve observed the American Cancer Society at work in the Capital Region, but my up-close experience at the Coaches vs Cancer Basket Ball event the last two years pushed me towards a volunteer role. I saw all the great things being accomplished by the people working behind the scenes and I thought to myself, ‘I can do more. I want to do more.’
I’m honored to be included on the Associate Board of Ambassadors or the ABOA as the cool kids are calling it. We’re an energized group ready to effect change in our community and we’ll be asking for your help in the coming months!
To find out more about the Associate Board of Ambassadors:
ABOA Membership & Recruitment Leadership
- Kelly Richards: RichardsK@pioneerbanking.com
- Aaron Hahn: ahahn@bgcpa.net
ACS Staff Partner: Lizzie Hunter: Elizabeth.Hunter@Cancer.org
