My Nonprofit Reviews
KairolRosenth
Review for , , ,
Matthew Zachary is the driving force behind i2y. I interviewed and wrote a chapter about him for my book on young adult cancer, and I’m now addicted to his organization and their mission. 20 and 30-somethings are the outcasts of the cancer community and i2y is glue that is bringing us together, showing us that we are not alone. The most impressive part of i2y in my mind is their ability to reach out to so many cancer clinics across the country and disseminate information to professionals so they can guide young patients to the vibrant community that is i2y. This organization is a sweeping force that successfully attracts thousands of members. After days on end, roaming the hospital as an isolated, pitied young person with cancer, there is nothing like coming home to a family of friends who totally get what you are going through and are there to connect with you through i2y’s Stupid Cancer Blog, Stupid Cancer Show, and in person at Happy Hours thrown by local chapters. I’m Too Young For This does not play by the rules. They are not your typical pink ribbon affair. They are gutsy, creative, and use guerilla tactics to question the cancer status quo. They are not here just to make you feel good about being a cancer patient, or about volunteering on behalf of a nice cause. The folks at i2y force you to look at hardship of living with a rotten disease in the prime of life and then ask you to get busy living.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
their name recognition. When I talk to professionals in the cancer care field their eyes light up when they hear about my involvement with i2y. Social workers and docs are grateful for their existence.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2008
Review for Imerman Angels, Chicago, IL, USA
I met Jonny Imerman five years ago, when he was finishing treatment and I was just beginning research for my book about 20 and 30-somethings living with cancer. Five years later, he has a one-of-a-kind, flourishing organization, which stands out among all the research I have done on groups working to connect cancer survivors. Here’s what I’ve learned: There are a lot of cancer organizations that have buddy programs that match up newbie patients with those of us who have been through the trenches already. Imerman Angels does it the best. Hands down. Why? They are not just database driven. The people who work at IA really take time to get to know the new cancer fighter and like a very, very good yenta, they make personalized matches that a computer alone could never just spit out. They don’t just take into account cancer type, stage, and your geography. Are you retired, working, in college, married, single, a parent? All of these things matter to them in finding someone who really gets your walk down the cancer trail. The result? Meaningful, strong, long lasting relationships between the fighter and the survivor. And it doesn’t just end there. They stay connected with you and want to know how you are doing well beyond your initial contact. Everyone who works at IA is a powerhouse of good intentions, hard work, and loads of caring and love. This is not your average non-profit organization. They stick to their mission, have grown over time and at a sensible pace, and stay focused on the main issues at hand: improving the lives of cancer patients through one-on-one support. They have also build an extremely large, active following of volunteers who love participating in making it all happen. If you want to be a part of a feel good organization, this is your place.
More Feedback
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
within 24 hours of a diagnosis, match up every new cancer patient with a smart, well screen survivor who can show them the ropes so they don't have to go it alone.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2008
