Managing the Present & Planning for the Future

In YSC’s vibrant history, the COVID-19 pandemic is truly the greatest challenge we have faced as an organization. Prioritizing the health of all participants resulted in cancelling the 2020 YSC Tour de Pink (TdP) and the postponement of the 2020 Congressional Women's Softball game. This fundraising reality coupled with a dramatic decrease in donations has created a very serious financial situation for YSC.

We have created a plan which includes the conservation of our limited resources while working to lay a new foundation for our economic recovery. The hardest part of the plan includes the temporary furloughing of the majority of YSC staff, who perform with steadfast commitment the important work of the organization. During this time we will rely even more so on our volunteers - the heartbeat of YSC. This was a painful decision to make not only because it impacts the lives of our dedicated staff, but also the impact this will have on YSC’s short-term ability to deliver high-level service to the YSC community.

You Are Still YSC’s Mission

Even with this temporary reduction in staff, our unwavering commitment to the young adult breast cancer community continues. Over our 22-year history, YSC has supported more than 200,000 young adults diagnosed with breast cancer, their co-survivors and healthcare provider networks. COVID-19 will not change that.

Survivors, thrivers and co-survivors will still find connection through our 176 Face 2 Face groups, many of which are meeting online until it’s safe to continue in person. Community and interest-based Virtual Hangouts will still meet and YSC’s Private Facebook Groups will remain active to provide opportunity to connect with peers. YSC’s robust online educational materials will continue to be accessible for download and our website available with the latest healthcare information for every stage of diagnosis through treatment and beyond.

A Better Future Together

Already, we are excitedly looking to our future. We’ve secured dates for the 2021 YSC Summit, where we hope to gather and celebrate with this amazing community in Los Angeles, CA, May 21-23, 2021. Save your spot today.

We’re also adapting to the rapidly changing needs of the present moment and we’re excited to announce an expanded Virtual Tour de Pink (TdP) that is more inclusive of all abilities and fitness interests. This year for Virtual TdP, you set your own individual health goal and walk, run, ride or swim your way toward it. We’ve waived all registration fees and fundraising minimums in an effort to more tightly connect all of you to each other during this difficult time. If you’ve ever been curious about the Tour de Pink family or have not participated in a TdP in many years, now is the time to join or start a team.

While we work to implement our COVID-19 Resiliency Plan, please know our priority and commitment is to the entire YSC community and to ensuring that no young adult facing breast cancer is ever alone.

Please take care of yourselves and each other.
Jennifer Merschdorf
Chief Executive Officer