How it Started...Where we are going.

 What started as a simple idea in an effort to help out a fellow employee has turned into a movement that has had an impact on hundreds, if not thousands, of people.

Since 2010, Scare Away Cancer has raised over $1.2 million to support patients, families, and programs in eastern Nebraska and western Iowa.  How do we explain our success?  It's easy, we like to have fun!

It's okay to fly your freak flag now and then!  That's why our annual event is a costume party.  Dressing up is not a requirement, but it is encouraged and who doesn't like to decorate themselves around Halloween?  Every year the ballroom at Anthony's Steakhouse is full of excitement, energy, and people who are serious about making a difference for people fighting cancer. 

We like to have a blast more than once a year.  That's why we have added the Boo Brew to our event calendar.  Who doesn't like to drink beer?  The event is held in July at the MCL Construction office; we call it a friendraiser, not a fundraiser.

Scare Away Cancer is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. What makes our structure even more unique is it's operated 100% by volunteers!  That's right, the "staff" are all volunteers from MCL Construction and others in the community.  Our collaborative group is in charge of sponsorships, decorations, entertainment, and so much more.  A selfless act of giving without expecting anything in return.  Our motto:  Have Fun, Make a Difference, and The Money Stays Here.  It's important to us that the funds donated stay in our community where it can make an immediate impact. 

Our friends at MCL Construction put their hearts and souls into everything they do.  A great example is Scare Away Cancer -- one of our favorite events.  Each year it draws in more people and raises more money.  MCL has perfected this party.  It’s a night where we celebrate Halloween while uniting our community against cancer and helping a family on their cancer journey.  I always leave feeling inspired.  Scare Away Cancer truly puts the FUN in FUNdraising.

Ryanne Elsesser, Methodist Health Foundation