OUR MISSION & FOCUS
Overview
Over 100,000 New Mexicans are currently living with cancer and over 9,000 more are diagnosed each year. The diagnosis of cancer can be devastating, both to the patient and to the family members and friends who serve as their primary caregivers. Most feel unprepared to cope with the disease. Caregivers, in particular, typically feel completely overwhelmed and unqualified to care for their loved ones.
Many cancer patients and their loved ones have tremendous difficulty gaining access to the services and support they need. Practitioners are often too rushed to provide detailed information on what services are available and how to access them. Families have trouble getting adequate explanations and assistance with managing the illness on a day-to-day basis. The physical and emotional tolls are overwhelming.
Cancer Services of New Mexico was created to help address these challenges.
“In 2018, Cancer Services of New Mexico (CSNM) served over 1,000 New Mexicans coping with cancer. It is tremendously rewarding to make a difference in the lives of so many of New Mexico’s cancer patients/survivors and their loved ones. “
Our Background
Cancer Services of New Mexico (CSNM) is a charitable, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization that was
formed in May 2001, to address gaps in cancer-related services in our state. We are the only
statewide non-profit organization that looks broadly at addressing gaps in cancer-related services,
while maintaining a 100% focus on New Mexico.
We have no full-time staff and no physical office. Our programs are developed and led by 300+
volunteers, supported by part-time program managers. Administrative expenses are typically less than
5% of revenues. We serve around 1,500 New Mexicans coping with cancer each year.
Our Mission
To provide services that reduce cancer suffering for New Mexico’s families.
Our Vision
Every New Mexican family will have access to the information, support, and resources that they need
to cope with cancer.
Our Core Values & Beliefs
- We are committed to identifying gaps in NM’s cancer-related services and developing programs
to address them. We work closely with other cancer services providers across the state to
coordinate programs and minimize duplication of effort. - We target our services on areas where we can have significant impact on cancer suffering in New Mexico, focusing on needs that are not otherwise adequately addressed.
- A cancer diagnosis impacts the entire family system. Our programs go beyond just supporting
cancer patients/survivors. We include their family members, loved ones, and caregivers who are also impacted by the disease. - We are a service organization. We spend the vast majority of our funds delivering services
directly to New Mexicans impacted by cancer. - The spirit of volunteerism is critical to our success. Most of our Board Members and other
volunteers have personal experience coping with cancer; they are committed to making a
difference for others in similar situations. The extraordinary dedication of our volunteers allows
us to operate cost-effectively.
Our Funding
CSNM’s funding comes from a combination of grants, corporate contributions, and individual donations. Click here to see our list of proud and generous supporters.