American Cancer Society Road to Recover project seeks Logan County volunteers
A simple drive provides critical support that saves lives

 

[December 13, 2022] 

This year, an estimated 75,350 people will be diagnosed with cancer in Illinois. Access to timely, high-quality treatment can often be a cancer patient’s largest roadblock to survival. Many patients must schedule daily or weekly appointments for several months, keeping friends and family from being able to provide all the support needed. The American Cancer Society’s Road To Recovery program works to fill this gap by recruiting volunteers that offer free rides to patients nationwide. Before pausing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program had nearly 10,000 volunteers driving in every state. Today, the organization is working to recruit more volunteers in Illinois to return to full capacity.

“Volunteering as a Road To Recovery® driver will put you at the heart of the American Cancer Society’s mission and fulfill a critical need for cancer patients. Even the best treatment can’t work if a patient can’t get there.” said Stephanie Smith, American Cancer Society Sr. Development Manager.

Volunteer drivers must be between the ages of 18 and 84, have a valid driver’s license, pass a background check, show proof of COVID-19 vaccination, and have access to a safe, reliable car.

Through a new mobile-friendly website or app, patients submit ride requests and see real time notifications. Volunteer drivers determine their availability and can view and accept ride requests when they appear. Those who lack access to technology or prefer to connect via phone can call 1-800-227-2345 to schedule rides to treatment.

Since 2005, Road To Recovery has provided more than 9 million rides to patients who had no other way of getting to treatment appointments.

To learn more about volunteering for the Road To Recovery program, visit cancer.org/drive.

[Stephanie Smith
ACS Senior Development Manager]

About the American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is on a mission to free the world from cancer. We invest in lifesaving
research, provide 24/7 information and support, and work to ensure that individuals in every community have access to cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. For more information, visit cancer.org.