Here in Jacksonville, there are many ways for individuals, businesses, and community groups to pitch in toward breast cancer research, support, education, and patient services. Below is a look at why this work matters and how you can help.
Here in Jacksonville, there are many ways for individuals, businesses, and community groups to pitch in toward breast cancer research, support, education, and patient services. Below is a look at why this work matters, what exactly “research and support” can mean locally, and four to five Jacksonville-based nonprofits you might consider getting involved with (or supporting) to help make a difference.
Why Supporting Breast Cancer Research & Services Locally Matters
Early detection saves lives. Access to mammograms, imaging, and diagnostic tests can make a huge difference in outcomes. Delays or lack of access often lead to later‐stage diagnoses, which are harder to treat.
Research leads to better treatments. Clinical trials, translational genomics, and other research efforts (e.g. vaccine trials, genetic risk studies) are happening here and need funding, volunteers, tissue or data donors, etc.
There are disparities in access. Uninsured or underinsured people, or those in certain communities, may have less access to screenings or support services. Local nonprofits often help fill these gaps.
Patient support matters. Beyond medical treatment, services that reduce financial, emotional, or logistical burdens (transportation, childcare, utility bills, etc.) improve quality of life and help people stick with treatment plans.
Jacksonville-Based Nonprofits You Can Support
Here are several organizations either based in Jacksonville or serving the Jacksonville area, doing work related to breast cancer research, screening/access, patient services, or education.
Organization
What They Do
Ways You Can Help
The RITA (Research Is The Answer) Foundation, Inc.
Focuses heavily on raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research in the greater Jacksonville area; also supports clinical/basic research, education, and patient-related breast cancer programs. They donate their net proceeds (no salary/overhead) as unrestricted grants.
Donate, attend or sponsor their fundraising events, or help spread awareness of their work.
This all-volunteer nonprofit funds free mammograms and imaging services for uninsured and underinsured people in Jacksonville, educates about early detection, supports patient services, and also contributes to research via Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville.
Contribute funds, volunteer (help with events, outreach), or partner with them for fundraisers or awareness events.
Part of a national network, Komen North Florida funds research, diagnostic screening, education, and support programs; helps people with breast cancer in our region.
Join their events (e.g. walks/runs), donate, or help with community outreach. Their grants often go to local programs.
Over the last two decades, The DONNA Foundation has served more than 20,000 families. The organization has also disbursed more than $3.3 million in support of research. The organization also operates events and programs for survivorship, education and awareness.
You might donate, help with logistics at one of many DONNA events, participate in an event by running or host a fundraising event.
Focused on underserved and vulnerable communities of color; provides education, breast health screenings, mental health support, patient advocacy and financial resources.
Supporting them via donations, volunteering for screening events, or helping with patient services (transportation, advocacy, emotional support) can make a real local difference.
How You Can Support:
Here are some practical ways individuals or organizations in Jacksonville can contribute to this cause:
Donate Financially
Directly to one of the above nonprofits.
Towards specific local research programs (for example, those run through Mayo Clinic Jacksonville or Baptist-MD Anderson’s breast cancer research trials).
Through matching gift programs (if your employer does them).
Volunteer Time
Help with outreach, awareness events, screening days.
Assist with patient services: driving, childcare, making phone calls, etc.
Support logistics for fundraising events (sale booths, auctions, etc.).
Raise Awareness
Share information via social media about local services, free screening opportunities.
Participate in or organize local events (walks, exhibits, art shows).
Support things like “Light Jax Pink” (lighting buildings pink during Breast Cancer Awareness Month) to increase visibility.
Support Clinical Research
If eligible, enroll in clinical trials.
Provide donations earmarked for research (not just awareness).
Advocacy
Advocate for policies that expand access to screening and treatment.
Work with local government or health departments to fund programs for underserved communities.
Some Recent Local Highlights
Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center in Jacksonville has recently reported that its Breast Cancer Research Program has enrolled its 1000th clinical trial patient, including trials for novel therapies and immunotherapy.
Pink Ribbon Jax has supported advanced imaging and genomics research projects, including the Mayo Clinic’s translational genomics program and the national BEAUTY study, which helps personalize treatment based on genetic factors.
SenioRITA Tennis Tournament at Sawgrass Country Club (one event put on by the RITA Foundation) - To date, they have raised $3.4 million to benefit research and patient services at Mayo Clinic, Baptist Medical Center Beaches, the “Buddy Bus” Mobile Mammography Unit and cold cap treatments at MD Anderson which help women prevent hair loss during chemotherapy. In addition, because of funds raised at the 2025 tournament, they will help fund a new MRI machine at Baptist Beaches Hospital.
Support is key
Supporting breast cancer research and patient services in Jacksonville is something nearly everyone can contribute to in some way. Whether through time, money, or simply raising awareness, each piece helps build better screening access, more treatments, and stronger support systems for those affected.
