Jim Valvano was a successful basketball coach and an award-winning television commentator who was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 1992. In January of 1993, ESPN offered their support in establishing a foundation that would fund cancer research. Upon receiving the Arthur Ashe Award of Courage at the inaugural ESPY Awards show in March of that year, Jim announced that ESPN was creating The V Foundation for Cancer Research. The organization inspired by Jim Valvano’s courageous battle against cancer would operate with his motto:

“Don’t give up… DON’T EVER GIVE UP!”®

Although Jim Valvano lost his battle with cancer on April 28, 1993, he had already set his dream of finding a cure for cancer into motion. Today, with the help of a nationwide network of volunteers, event planners, individual donors, and corporate sponsors, The V Foundation is active in all aspects of fundraising. National and local events, annual and major gift solicitations, planned giving and cause-related marketing efforts all contribute to our cause of funding cancer research. Since 1993, The V Foundation has awarded more than $115 million in cancer research grants in 38 states and the District of Columbia. Researchers have developed their laboratories and taken their science from the labs to the clinics with the help of funds raised by The V Foundation.

The V Foundation also takes great pride in its fiscal responsibility and is proud to announce that it awards 100 percent of direct cash donations to cancer research and related programs. Recognized for its prudent fiscal management, The V Foundation has earned another four-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest charity evaluator, placing us in the top 10% of charities nationwide.

Members of The V Foundation’s all-volunteer Board of Directors and Scientific Advisory Board also generously donate time, talent, resources, and energy in support of our mission. These committed individuals from the world of business, medicine, sports, and entertainment share one common goal: to defeat cancer.

Jim Valvano knew that The V Foundation could not save his life, but he hoped that “it could save my children’s lives, or someone that you love.” His dream of a cure is one shared by millions.

To learn more about The V Foundation or to donate Click Here