How do free oral cancer screenings get organized? I'd like to orchestrate one at my workplace this fall and then at a mall after the first of the year to spread the word about oral cancer. Ideally would also collect donations for OCF. Sorry if this info's posted somewhere, I didn't find it.

I started my annual screenings 5 years ago and they have grown leaps and bounds both in what I offer for free and the number of people screened.

First you start with a location. I chose a Walgreens because I knew the Manager and it was in a perfect central location at the intersection of 2 main roads in my City and they had a really nice sized parking lot.

Next I researched the date. Being a CPA it HAD to be after April 15. Being in west central Florida I wanted it held while the Snow Birds were still hanging around, appx mid Jan thru the week after Easter. It also was best to have it on a Saturday so the most people could attend.

Since it was going to be outdoors under tents and being in Florida it had to be before it got really hot and the rainy season kicks in so it had to be pre May.

So my time was limited to a Saturday between April 16 and the week after Easter. Each year the date changes accordingly. I also chose 4 hours duration and thought 10 am to 2 pm would do best.

Next I had to go to my City and smooge them and get their blessing since I wanted them to be a sponsor and GIVE ME THINGS! They do a ton of free advertising (so will newspapers, radio and TV stations); they provide the tents and chairs and tables and the labor to set them up and tear them down. They also create and make all copies of flyers and various other forms I wanted and they also now provide police for traffic detail. OFC will also provide you with tons of materials and advice, not that you will need it after reading this. lol

Next I had to find dentists that would volunteer. I started with mine and asked him for other suggestions. My dentist has worked all 5. He's just a great guy. He even came to my house during Tx several times unsolicited to look in my mouth and just check up on me AND NEVER charged me or my insurance!

Next I found volunteers to help the month of. These are needed to help make phone calls insuring no one has forgotten what they are supposed to do and help distribute flyers all around town the week before and of course help the day of.

First year was a little scary but each year after has been easier. I started with just 3 dentists and just oral screenings and we screened appx 200 people. Each year I tried adding something else. This year I had the Oral Screenings, Prostrate Screenings, Moffitt's 40+ foot Mole Patrol Bus for free Skin Cancer Screenings and the Blood Mobile. Walgreens also sets up a tent and gives a free goody bag and provides free water. The access to their bathrooms is also helpful. Walgreens also offers the use of their store if some need shelter from the heat. We also screened over 500 people this year and I already have commitments to make next year even bigger and better.

Piece of cake!

Susan Lauria is OCF's Event Coordinator. She will help you with everything you need. She also hosts her own walk every year in NJ to honor her brother who passed away from OC.

Im working with Susan tomorrow at a booth and will let her know you are interested in organizing some events.

Thank you very much for your support!!!

Hi Mamacita! Thank you so much for wanting to pursue an oral cancer screening in your community! This is how we will spread much needed awareness and hopefully save a life. Email me at [email protected] and perhaps we can talk on the phone to discuss. Also send me your email address. Thank you and look forward to hearing from you!!

Best

Susan

Thanks Susan, I sent you an email.