Julie Greenbaum Started Nonprofit F--- Cancer in Order to Create 'a Space Where Young People Could Unite to Raise Awareness and Fight Back Against the Disease'

Julie Greenbaum, Co-Founder of F--- Cancer, started the nonprofit organization in 2010 after her mother passed away from ovarian cancer.

"When I was just 19, I felt a deep sense of loss and a powerful drive to make a difference. I wanted to create a space where young people could unite to raise awareness and fight back against this disease in a fun way. So, I organized the first F Cancer party in Montreal, Canada, with the goal of raising funds and awareness for a cause that affects too many lives," Greenbaum exclusively tells Morning Honey. "Since that first event, we've hosted 94 more worldwide dedicated to funding prevention and early detection efforts. Through these events, we've built a community of passionate individuals committed to taking action and making a tangible impact in the fight against cancer."

At the time of her mom's death, the entrepreneur felt there was a "gap in the market for fun and accessible ways for younger generations to engage in the fight against cancer," which is why she launched the nonprofit in the first place.

"F Cancer events have since become that outlet, offering a dynamic party for young people to get involved with philanthropy. These events not only connect the youth but also empower them to make a real, lasting impact in the fight against cancer," she says.

She adds: "F--- Cancer is dedicated to advancing health equity through early detection and prevention programs, and by providing resources to navigate, manage and cope with cancer. With wit, edge and humor, we’re changing the way people think and talk about cancer and encouraging them to be active rather than passive when it comes to their cancer risk. Our charity is dedicated to empowering individuals to take charge of their health by encouraging open conversations about family history, recognizing signs and symptoms, and fostering dialogue with friends and loved ones. By sharing information freely, we aim to equip people with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and take proactive steps toward better health."

Over the years, F Cancer and its incredible community has become a "therapeutic outlet" for Greenbaum — and many others.

"Having the opportunity to connect with others who have been affected by cancer and those you share an unspoken bond with is incredibly special. Continuously connecting with others who share a similar experience has been a true light in my life," she explains, adding that the most rewarding part of the job is "connecting with others who share the same passion for giving back and making a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer."

While it's been "incredible" to see the company grow so far, Greenbaum is far from done. "I’m so proud and I recognize that we would never have gotten to this place without all the help and support from our community so I’m very grateful for all the wonderful people who have helped this charity grow along the way!" she says, noting that in the future she hopes F--- Cancer makes even more of an impact on others.

"I want to continue building out our events model and continue providing an avenue for the younger generation to get involved in fighting back against cancer," she declares.

F--- Cancer recently collaborated with Little Words Project and Kelsey Anderson, who met her fiancé, Joey Graziadei, on The Bachelor and whose mom passed away in 2018 from breast cancer, to launch a limited edition bracelet supporting Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Held in New York City on October 23, ticket holders were able to meet Anderson and receive her custom designed bracelet with a 50 percent of store sales donated to F--- Cancer’s mission. The special bracelet, designed by the reality starlet, represents both strength and hope, and it highlights how F--- Cancer continues to forge unique partnerships to raise awareness and funds in unexpected ways.

"It was awesome. Similar to Little Words Project, F Cancer is very focused on community and bringing people together, so it was really special to be able to do that against the backdrop of Kelsey honoring her mom through the 'always' bracelet!" Greenbaum says, adding that she would "love" to continue working with influencers who have a "genuine connection to the cause and have their own story to tell as well as brands that focus on the importance of community."

Next up is the 100th F Cancer event, which is a "major milestone for the charity and great opportunity to raise money by honoring all the wonderful people who have helped and supported us over the years," she shares.

Ultimately, Greenbaum hopes the organization is "inspiring others" and educating people about the importance of prevention and early detection in a way that resonates with people "and pushes them to take control of their own health journey ultimately improving health outcomes," she says. "I also hope that our organization continues to provide a community for those affected by cancer. F--- Cancer!"