4 Wisconsin-based cancer charities that really make a difference

By Christina Lorey

January 27, 2025

So you want to donate… but where? With more than 100 cancer-focused charities in Wisconsin alone, it can be hard to decide where to give your money.

TIP: Before donating to any organization, we recommend searching Charity Navigator, a website that rates nonprofits based on how effectively they use your money.

Here are 3 Wisconsin-based charities we found that immediately put your dollars to work:

Gilda’s Club of Madison provides free emotional support, cancer education, and hope for anyone with any form of cancer, as well as their families. Gilda’s (which yes–is named after comedian Gilda Radner, who died of ovarian cancer) has club locations in most states. Click here to donate to Madison’s branch or here to give to your nearest chapter.

The Wisconsin Breast Cancer Coalition is an alliance of cancer survivors, supporters, and organizations who work together to make breast cancer less common through community education and government legislation. They’ve played a key role in making breast cancer screenings more affordable and are now working to make them free for all Wisconsin women. Click here to donate or here to learn more about the legal work they’re doing.

Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation oversees volunteers who–as its name suggests–host lemonade stands and fundraising events across the country to raise money to fight childhood cancer. They’re always searching for new people of all ages to host one in any Wisconsin city… or really, any city anywhere! Click here for a list of ways you can get involved.

Author

Christina Lorey

Christina Lorey is an Edward R. Murrow Award-winning journalist and former UpNorthNews newsletter editor. She previously worked as a producer, reporter, and TV anchor for stations in Madison and Moline. When she’s not writing or asking questions, Christina volunteers with Girls on the Run, the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, and several mental health organizations.

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CATEGORIES: HEALTHCARE

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