Greater Chattanooga Colon Cancer Foundation

Mission: To provide community education and medical benefit in all matters relating to colon and rectal cancer and preventative support in the greater Chattanooga region.

Founded in 2011 by a group of local physicians, the Greater Chattanooga Colon Cancer Foundation (GCCCF) was established to ensure that all funds raised for colorectal cancer awareness and prevention stay local. Recognizing Tennessee’s high rates of colorectal cancer deaths and low screening rates, GCCCF aims to transform the region’s approach to colon cancer prevention and care.

GCCCF is committed to eliminating colorectal cancer in the Chattanooga area through:

• Awareness Campaigns: Engaging the community through health fairs, public service media campaigns, and the annual Rump Run 5K to educate about early screening and prevention.
• Community Collaboration: Partnering with representatives from local hospital networks and healthcare providers to enhance access to screenings and care.
• Advocacy for Early Screening: Promoting updated guidelines recommending regular screenings starting at age 45 and emphasizing that colon cancer is preventable, treatable, and beatable through early detection.
• Volunteer and Survivor Engagement: Mobilizing volunteers and celebrating survivors to foster community involvement and support.

Through these efforts, GCCCF is building a future where every eligible person in the Chattanooga region receives timely colon cancer screenings, ultimately saving lives.