April Updates

April is National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month


April marks National Cancer Prevention and Early Detection Month. Messaging resources and social media graphics are available on Prevent Cancer Dialogue's website to support awareness efforts.


Want to get involved? Join the Colorado Cancer Coalition's Task Force to connect with others improving prevention, screening, and awareness across Colorado.

The 2026 - 2030 Colorado Cancer Plan


We’re proud to officially launch the 2026–2030 Colorado Cancer Plan — a statewide roadmap designed to reduce the burden of cancer and improve outcomes for all Coloradans over the next five years.


Members of the Colorado Cancer Coalition and CDPHE developed the Plan in partnership with leaders, providers, advocates, survivors, caregivers, and communities across Colorado.


Together, we are committed to advancing prevention, early detection, treatment, survivorship, and health equity statewide.


This updated Plan builds on prior progress while sharpening our focus on:


  • Reducing cancer incidence and mortality
  • Increasing equitable access to screening and early detection
  • Improving survivorship and quality of life
  • Strengthening policy and systems-level strategies
  • Advancing cancer equity across communities


The 2026–2030 Plan focuses on measurable objectives, working together across Colorado's cancer community, and advancing strategies that strengthen both clinical care and improve prevention and early detection, and address factors that impact Coloradan’s cancer risk such as healthy behaviors, environmental exposures, and access to care.


We invite you to:


  • Review the full Plan
  • Share it with your networks using our promotional toolkit
  • Identify opportunities to align your work with its goals
  • Join a Task Force or Coalition initiative
  • Attend our Coalition Cancer Plan session - more information coming soon

Check Off Cancer - Support the CCC


Donate your tax refund to prevent cancer, catch it early, and support Coloradans through survivorship


Cancer impacts patients, families, caregivers and entire communities. At the Colorado Cancer Coalition, we work statewide to reduce Colorado’s cancer burden through prevention, early detection, access to care, and patient support.


One of the easiest ways to support this work is to make a Colorado tax donation for cancer directly through your state income tax return. Tax season donations are the largest source of funding for the Colorado Cancer Coalition’s statewide efforts.

New Task Force: Cancer Health Equity


As implementation of 2026–2030 Colorado Cancer Plan begins, there is a clear need to expand our work to address cancer disparities and gaps that persist within many communities across our state. 


To support that work, the Colorado Cancer Coalition is launching a new Health Equity Task Force focused on reducing barriers to prevention, screening, treatment, and survivorship across communities including Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, LGTBQIA+, rural and frontier communities, and individuals with disabilities. Under this new structure, the Latino Cancer Task Force will transition to a workgroup within the Health Equity Task Force and serve as strong model for other workgroups focused on the needs of historically underserved communities across Colorado.   


The Health Equity Task Force will address disparities highlighted in the 2026-2030 Colorado Cancer Plan with the goal of strengthening the Coalition’s equity work and ensuring that action from the Colorado Cancer Plan reflects the realities facing communities throughout the state. 



We are eager to launch this task force alongside partners who are committed to advancing more equitable cancer outcomes statewide. If you’re interested in getting involved, we welcome you to fill out our interest form below. 

CDPHE is seeking applications for vacancies on the Cancer, Cardiovascular, and Pulmonary Disease (CCPD) Grant Program Review Committee


The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) is seeking applications to fill several key vacancies on the Cancer Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Disease (CCPD) Grant Program Review Committee. We are currently accepting applications for the following positions:

  • Cardiovascular Disease Professional
  • Cancer Professional
  • Recognized Expert in Health Disparities
  • Representative of the rural interest in regard to the prevention, early detection, and treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and chronic pulmonary disease


To apply, please email submissions to cdphe_A35grantreviewcommittees@state.co.us and include:

  • a completed and signed application form
  • a current resume/CV
  • a statement of interest
  • a letter of support 


Applications are due by May 1, 2026. Applicants from rural areas are particularly encouraged to apply. For further details, including the application instructions and required materials, please refer to the full application.


Healthcare Documents with Dave Strousberg


Missed the live session our educational webinar focused on healthcare documents and decisions by Dave Strousberg of Wills Simplified and the Survivorship & Palliative Care Task Force? Check it out on our Youtube channel!


Prefer to listen in Spanish? Find the interpreted version here, password Yw=?45FN

We're Recruiting New Chairs!


The Colorado Cancer Coalition is seeking passionate leaders to help drive statewide action in cancer prevention and care!


We’re currently recruiting Chairs for the Skin Cancer Task Force - an exciting opportunity to shape Colorado’s cancer prevention and early detection efforts.


As a Task Force Chair, you’ll help guide collaboration among statewide partners, set priorities, and lead initiatives that advance the goals of the Colorado Cancer Plan. Chairs typically convene monthly / bi-monthly meetings, foster connections across sectors, and help elevate innovative ideas and community needs.


If you’re ready to help move Colorado forward in reducing the burden of cancer, learn more about our Task Forces here and email emeyer@trailhead.institute to inquire.

Upcoming Events: Free Gyno Cancer Lunch Connections in Southern Colorado


Survivor Chat: Finding what feeds your soul

April 9th, 12 - 2 pm


Survivor Chat: What is Mindfulness?

April 15th, 12 - 2 pm

Survey Opportunity: How Rural and Urban Healthcare Infrastructure and Systems Affect Cancer Outcomes


Are you a healthcare provider who's passionate about healthcare access? Support local Columbine High School student by providing your perspective on rural barriers.

Upcoming Event: The Healing Connection: A Free Walk & Lunch for Cancer Wellness


Join us at the Rosemount Museum for a relaxed, community-centered event for cancer survivors and their caregivers across Pueblo, Pueblo West, and Southern Colorado.


This free event is an opportunity to spend time outdoors, connect with others who share similar experiences, and enjoy a meal together in a supportive, low-pressure environment.


We’ll begin with a casual group walk (all paces welcome), followed by lunch and time to connect.


What to expect:

  • A short, easy walk
  • Lunch provided at no cost
  • Space to connect with others in the cancer community


May 20th, 9 am - 2 pm

Rosemount Museum, Pueblo CO

Próximo Evento: The Healing Connection: Una Caminata y Almuerzo Gratuitos para el Bienestar del Cáncer


Acompáñenos en el Rosemount Museum para un evento relajado y centrado en la comunidad para sobrevivientes de cáncer y sus cuidadores en Pueblo, Pueblo West y el sur de Colorado.


Este evento gratuito es una oportunidad para pasar tiempo al aire libre, conectarse con otras personas que comparten experiencias similares y disfrutar de una comida en un ambiente de apoyo y sin presión.


Comenzaremos con una caminata grupal casual (todos los ritmos son bienvenidos), seguida de un almuerzo y tiempo para convivir.


Qué puede esperar:

  • Una caminata corta y fácil
  • Almuerzo proporcionado sin costo
  • Espacio para conectarse con otras personas de la comunidad de cáncer


20 de mayo, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Rosemount Museum, Pueblo, CO

Upcoming Event: Cancer Survivors Day

Colorado Springs


Mark your calendars! On June 7th, the Colorado Cancer Coalition is joining partners across the region to celebrate cancer survivors at Bear Creek Regional Park East, Colorado Springs.


The event runs from 8:30 to 11:00 AM and is free for everyone to attend. Expect a walk, raffle prizes, food, and good company. Wear purple!


This year, we're making a point to reach younger survivors. If you know a teen, young adult, or child who has been touched by a cancer diagnosis, please pass this along — Survivors Day is for every age!


Survivors, caregivers, family members, providers, advocates, and community organizations are all welcome. Come out, connect with others, and take a moment to recognize how much you've been through.


June 7, 8:30–11 AM

Bear Creek Regional Park East,

Pavilions 7 & 8

Colorado Springs, CO

Free Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening & Testing


Penrose Cancer Center / Women's Wellness Connection is offering free cervical cancer/breast cancer screenings on the third Thursday of every month.


If you have no health insurance and meet the qualifications below, you may qualify. 

  • Between the ages of 40-64. 
  • At or below 250% of the federal poverty level. 
  • In need of screening exams or diagnostic testing following an abnormal screening


Contact (719) 776 5548 for more information or to schedule an appointment

Mamografía y Papanicolau gratis Incluyendo examen pélvico y de los senos

En El Centro De Cáncer Del Hospital Penrose Por El Programa De Conexiones Para El Bienestar De La Mujer (WWC)


Si usted no tiene seguro médico y cubre los siguientes requisitos, usted podría calificar. 

  • Entre 40 y 64 años. 
  • Igual o inferior al 250 % del nivel federal de pobreza (Ver gráfica abajo). 
  • Mujeres que necesiten pruebas de detección o exámenes de diagnostico por haber tenido un resultado de estudios anormal. 


Para más información o para hacer su cita, llame al 719.776.5610

Additional CommonSpirit Offerings


Anxiety: The Missing Stage of Grief

  • April 16th, 3 - 4 pm

Virtual Music Group

  • April 21st, 5 - 6 pm

Upcoming Conference: APOSW 49th Annual


Join APOSW in the Mile-High City for APOSW’s premier event of the year! The 49th Annual Conference will bring together pediatric oncology and hematology social workers from across the globe for dynamic learning, networking, and inspiration—set against the creative backdrop of The Curtis Hotel in vibrant downtown Denver. 


April 13 - 15th, 2026

Live by Living: Survivor & Caregiver Retreats


Live by Living retreat season kicks off this March!

Retreats are held in Tenth Mountain “huts”, YMCA cabins, Lincoln Hills Cares Lodge and private residences. This is a chance to unplug from daily life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Make new friends who “get it.” Eat gourmet, cancer-fighting food, challenge yourself physically, and gain new strength in facing life’s challenges. Open to survivors and caregivers.


Registration will open in May for summer retreats. 

Upcoming Event: Wray Community Health Fair


Wray Annual Health Fair is coming up on Saturday, April 28th 8 am - 11 am


Marc Jr. Foundation Monthly Bingo


Interested in supporting families battling DIPG/DMG - Terminal Pediatric Brain Cancer? Join the Marc Jrs. Foundation on April 19th for a game of Bingo


Satire Brewery - 12136 Grant Cir. Thornton

$25 to play (cash preferred)

Cash prizes up to $200

American Cancer Society


Our work is supported by the American Cancer Society, a valued partner in advancing cancer prevention, screening, and survivorship across Colorado.


Visit them at cancer.org.

A Program at Trailhead Institute


The Colorado Cancer Coalition is a program at Trailhead Institute. To learn more about Trailhead, visit their website, connect on LinkedIn, or sign up for updates through the link below.

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