When cancer touches someone, it’s overwhelming and life-changing. That’s why, in 2001, a group of 44 Houstonians came together to found Young Texans Against Cancer, or YTAC.
These 22- to 40-year-olds started YTAC with a mission to raise awareness and support for local cancer organizations. Eight years later, YTAC’s third chapter was formed in Dallas, and it has raised more than $1 million for local organizations that are fighting cancer.
The independent, nonprofit organization is headed by an all-volunteer board — a group of young professional men and women who give their money and time to help organizations like the Mary Crowley Research Center, 1 Million for Anna, Leukemia Texas, and many more each year.
Their mission may be somber, but YTAC members know how to advocate and fundraise while having a load of fun. There’s an annual chili cook-off and golf tournament, not to mention this year’s first ever STRUT Fashion Show, an event in which YTAC will partner with Front Door Fashion to highlight the courageous stories of cancer champions and survivors.
Members also come together for regular happy hours throughout the year to network and support one another. But none of these events would be possible without the dedication of YTAC members.
“We’re 100 percent volunteer, and we serve the community without a larger umbrella organization to support it,” explains YTAC Dallas president Phuong Tran. “We want to ensure our membership continues to be a place where folks who have a story to share and want to make a difference in our local cancer community can.”
To help boost membership and continue to give a voice to people who have been impacted by cancer, YTAC is hosting its free 2016 membership drive in February at The Rustic. Not only will attendees get to know the board, beneficiaries, and members, but they also can join as a new member — or renew their membership — while meeting new friends.
Members will receive two drink tickets, and all attendees will have the chance to purchase tickets to spring events like the Chili Cook-off for a Cure, STRUT Fashion Show, and YTRAC Race — some at a discounted rate. Members enjoy discounts on tickets to all YTAC events.
Also during the drive, annual memberships will be sold at a discounted rate of $60 for singles and $100 for married couples. Lifetime memberships will be available for $300 for singles and $450 for married couples.
YTAC’s 2016 membership drive takes place at The Rustic on February 10, 6-8 pm. RSVP to the event at rsvp-dallas@ytac.org, donate via the YTAC website, or stay up to date with all of YTAC’s events by signing up for their email list.
