The 1986 Samuel C. Harvey lecture: partners in cancer education.

I have attempted to highlight the important contributions of a voluntary health organization committed solely to cancer research, education, and patient service. The involvement of many thousands of volunteers has allowed the American Cancer Society to provide the country with a private sector alternative to government programs. Progress in cancer control through changes in lifestyle will not occur simply through the intervention of federal regulations. It will happen through private initiatives in neighborhoods across the country. It is in these communities that volunteers become the spark for the mission of cancer control. The financial contributions of millions of Americans along with their neighbors' enthusiasm and labors enable the American Cancer Society to provide all of us with vital ways to help ourselves, to train health professional leaders, and to unlock the mysteries of cancer through research. The American Cancer Society and the American Association for Cancer Education are truly partners in cancer education.