About
The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) is the world's leading philanthropic organization dedicated to funding prostate cancer research. Founded in 1993 by philanthropist Mike Milken after his own prostate cancer diagnosis revealed how little patient information and support existed, the Santa Monica, California-based foundation channels donations into cutting-edge science aimed at ending death and suffering from the disease.
Mission
PCF's mission is to end death and suffering from prostate cancer by funding life-saving research and supporting patients on their journey through diagnosis and treatment.
What they do
- Fund research awards across leading cancer centers, including Young Investigator Awards, Challenge Awards, TACTICAL Awards, and multi-institution Dream Teams
- Provide patient education resources, support groups, and clinical trial databases
- Convene the scientific community through retreats and professional conferences, including the Coffey-Holden meeting
- Partner with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, establishing 21 PCF-VA Centers of Excellence to bring precision oncology to veterans with prostate cancer
History
PCF was established in 1993 (originally known as CaP CURE) by Mike Milken, who recognized the lack of patient information and support after receiving his own prostate cancer diagnosis. The IRS granted the organization tax-exempt status in August 1993. Since the foundation's inception, prostate cancer death rates in the United States have been cut in half.
Scale and impact
According to the foundation, PCF has distributed more than 1 billion dollars across more than 2,615 research projects at 312 leading cancer centers, and its funded work spans 29 countries. The foundation reports that its research investments have contributed to a 20-fold increase in government funding for prostate cancer research and supported the development of 14 new therapies for the disease.
Financials
Per its IRS filings summarized by ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, for fiscal year 2024 the Prostate Cancer Foundation reported total revenue of 56,686,215 dollars, total expenses of 58,177,919 dollars, and total assets of 105,767,424 dollars.
Governance
The Prostate Cancer Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN 95-4418411). It reports a four-star rating with a 100 percent score from Charity Navigator and accreditation from the Better Business Bureau.