Volunteer at the Avera Race Against Cancer high-fiving a race participant.

Cancer Care

Support for local cancer care and clinical research helps improve the lives of many and the health of all the communities we serve.

Ways to Give Contact Us

Your Impact Changes Lives

Your donation brings hope and comfort to those living with a cancer diagnosis. Generous gifts from donors not only save lives but also make a lasting impact on local oncology services to support generations of cancer patients and their loved ones.

A cancer diagnosis has a profound impact on patients and their families. For decades, Avera has invested in care needs for these vulnerable populations to make more services, treatments and clinical trials available, while also providing the latest medical technology to the rural communities we serve.

When faced with a cancer diagnosis, finding world-class care close to home shouldn’t add to the burden. Avera is committed to providing exceptional oncology services across our region, making it easier for you and your loved ones to access the support you need.

Avera Race Against Cancer

Avera Race Against Cancer

The annual Avera Race is our premier fundraising event to make a difference in the lives of thousands of patients and family members impacted by cancer. We proudly thank participants who join in races each May across multiple communities plus our local business sponsors for their generosity. Our 2025 event raised more than $750,000 for cancer care!

Avera Race Info

Building Hope Here

Through our $7-million Building Hope Here Campaign, we will expand comprehensive cancer care into the Yankton community, with a new Avera Cancer Institute location. The standalone facility will offer medical oncology, radiation oncology, chemotherapy infusion, clinical research, genetic counseling and other support services, all under a single roof.

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Rendering of Avera Cancer Institute in Yankton SD

Make Your Donation Toward Cancer Care

The support of individuals like you, local businesses and organizations, and gracious volunteers bring hope and healing to those that need it most. Every dollar donated to cancer care stays local. Funds directly support patients by going toward:

  • 3D mammography imaging
  • Advanced technology and research
  • Cancer clinical trials
  • Cancer screening and detection
  • Chaplaincy services
  • Education
  • Genetic testing
  • High-precision detection technology
  • Integrative medicine
  • On-site support counseling
  • Navigation services
  • Registered dietitian support
  • Survivorship programs
  • Wig salon

Advancing Cancer Treatments

The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust funds non-profits and mission-aligned organizations to increase access and quality health care in our region. The trust helps make it possible for everyone to attain the highest level of cancer treatment and expertise — no matter where they live.

Avera Cancer Institute

Funding supports transportation assistance, complimentary massage and exercise programs, emotional and spiritual needs, as well as state-of-the-art technology needed to care for those served at Avera Cancer Institute.

Donations also support operations of the 24/7 Avera navigation services, connecting cancer patients and families to information, resources, services and care they need.

We Care, Pink Hair Event

We Care Pink Hair participants recieving pink extentions to their hair.

The Avera Foundation’s annual “We Care, Pink Hair” event directly supports patients and families at Avera Cancer Institute. Anyone in the community can donate to the Foundation to support cancer patients, while also receiving a pink or purple hair extension at participating Avera locations and salons in the Sioux Falls area and beyond. Pink symbolizes support for breast cancer, and purple represents overall cancer awareness.

More Focus Areas

Women & Children Our commitment to improving the health of women, children and families is stronger than ever, now and into the future.
Behavioral Health Those in need of behavioral health and addiction care can find financial support thanks to generous donors.
Caring for Life Donate to this fund to help patients in an emergency or life-threatening situation happening anywhere our footprint.
Hospice Care Supporting people going through the final stages of life’s journey with a financial gift is a great way to leave a legacy.
Regions we serve.

Support Community Health

Donating to local health services is a wonderful way to help others in your community. Discover where to give in South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and North Dakota.

Where to Give

Our Stories

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Make a Difference

Join us in extending, enriching and enhancing life for patients, residents and their loved ones. Search for a cause or reach out for more information.

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