[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 144 (Wednesday, October 15, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S12602]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY'S CHICAGO WOMEN'S BOARD

 Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, today I am pleased to recognize the 
50th anniversary of the Chicago Women's Board of the American Cancer 
Society's Illinois Division.
  Since its inception, in 1913, the American Cancer Society has been 
widely regarded as one of our Nation's leaders in public health. Even 
as the ACS expanded to become a nationwide community-based volunteer, 
health organization, they have remain dedicated to eliminating cancer 
as a major health problem by preventing cancer, saving lives and 
diminishing suffering from this disease through research, education, 
advocacy, and service.
  Founded in 1953, the Women's Board of the American Cancer Society has 
served as dedicated volunteers in the fight against cancer. In the 
beginning, the original members worked diligently canvassing 
neighborhoods, knocking on doors, requesting donations while also 
delivering important cancer information.
  Today, the board raises over $250,000 each year through their 
signature fundraising event, the Spring Fashion Show and Luncheon. They 
have also expanded their fundraising efforts to include pediatric 
cancer patients through their annual American Girl Fashion Show. 
Through their Teen-In-Training program, a commitment has been made by 
the Chicago Women's Board to share their knowledge and experience to 
enable young girls and women to become aware of cancer issues, 
philanthropy, and service, paving the way for another 50 years of 
dedicated service.
  The American Cancer Society has set important nationwide goals for 
the year 2015: to reduce cancer incidence rates by 25 percent, to 
reduce cancer mortality rates by 50 percent, and to improve the overall 
quality of life for cancer patients.
  Clearly, the Women's Board is critical to achieving these goals, and 
it is for these reasons that I proudly stand here today, congratulating 
the Chicago Women's Board on its 50th anniversary. I know my fellow 
Senators will join me in applauding them for their dedication, and I 
extend my best wishes for the future.

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