About
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance is a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that describes itself as the nation's oldest and largest colorectal cancer patient advocacy organization. Fiercely determined to end colon and rectal cancers within our lifetime, the Alliance works with what it calls a nation of passionate allies to advocate for prevention, magnify support for patients and caregivers, and accelerate research to end the disease.
Mission
Together with its community of allies, the Alliance advocates for prevention, magnifies support, and accelerates research to end colorectal cancer. The organization emphasizes that colorectal cancer is often preventable with screening and highly treatable when detected early, and it promotes screening beginning at age 45.
What they do
- Patient navigation and support, including a live navigator helpline at (877) 422-2030
- BlueHQ, a patient support hub offering personalized resources for patients and caregivers
- Screening education and prevention resources, including a screening quiz and colonoscopy preparation guidance
- Treatment information and biomarker education
- Financial resource assistance for patients
- Community support programs, including a Buddy Program, online communities, and young-onset support services
- Research funding through Project Cure CRC, which funds expedited, novel research, and the KLEOS adaptive clinical trial platform run collaboratively with GCAR
History
The Alliance was established in 1999 by a coalition of 41 survivors, caregivers, and friends, making it the nation's oldest and largest colorectal cancer patient advocacy organization.
Scale and impact
According to the organization, it supports approximately 13,000 allies annually through its patient navigation services and has invested more than $5 million in colorectal cancer research. The Alliance holds a 4-star rating on Charity Navigator, as noted on its website.
Financials
Per its IRS Form 990 data on ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer for the fiscal year ending December 2025, the Alliance reported revenue of $17,407,429, expenses of $22,776,232, and net assets of $8,491,423. The IRS granted its tax exemption in December 1999.
Governance
The organization is led by CEO Michael Sapienza and governed by a board of directors, supported by advisory boards and councils. Its executive team includes a Chief People Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Development Officer, and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer.