Francina Booker Accepts National Volunteer Award for Excellence in Cancer Advocacy Work
Local Resident Receives National Recognition from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
GARNER, NC – September 28, 2021– Garner resident Francina Booker was awarded the Ambassador Constituent Team (ACT!) Lead of the Year Award by the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in recognition of her efforts to help make cancer a national priority.
This annual award is presented to a state volunteer who has demonstrated a promising start in her role with ACS CAN by leveraging new opportunities to advocate for cancer patients.
“In her role as a lead ACS CAN volunteer, Francina consistently goes above and beyond to help advance our cancer mission,” said Lisa Lacasse, president of ACS CAN. “Whether it is managing successful fundraisers, participating in a grassroots campaign or deepening relationships with her lawmakers, Francina always steps up to the plate to advocate for cancer patients in North Carolina and nationwide.”
Francina joined ACS CAN as a volunteer in March 2019 stepping into the role of Ambassador Constituent Team (ACT) Lead to lead advocacy efforts in North Carolina’s Seventh District.
Already, she’s made significant strides for the organization in the state – and nationwide.
Most recently, Francina played an integral role in advocating for tobacco use prevention and cessation funding with lawmakers by handing out over 170 empty boxes at the Capitol to represent the $0 dedicated to youth tobacco prevention funding, one for every state house and state senate lawmaker. She’s also played an integral role in helping lead national efforts toward closing health inequities among communities of color by using her voice to advocate for just, equitable access for all.
“Francina is the volunteer who makes being a grassroots manager a complete honor and joy,” noted Marc Mazza, ACS CAN North Carolina Grassroots Manager. “She always brings a fun and exciting energy to the team and we can always count on her to show up and bring good laughs. I can’t think of a more incredible advocate or someone more deserving of this award.”
The award was presented on Sept. 26 as part of the annual ACS CAN Leadership Summit and Lobby Day. Nearly 700 cancer patients, survivors and their loved ones, including Francina, will meet virtually with their elected officials on Sept. 28 to urge them to make cancer a national priority.
On behalf of all families touched by cancer, ACS CAN thanks Francina for her incredible advocacy efforts that helps eliminate the burden of cancer in North Carolina and across the country.
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About ACS CAN at 20
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that saves lives. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and made workplaces, including restaurants and bars, smoke-free. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers and save more lives from cancer. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.