Vienna Police Launch Zero Cancer Grow Give Campaign to Boost Prostate Cancer Research
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Vienna Police Launch “Zero Cancer Grow Give” Campaign to Boost Prostate‑Cancer Research
In a community‑first move, the Vienna Police Department announced a new fundraising initiative, “Zero Cancer Grow Give,” aimed at supporting cutting‑edge research into prostate cancer. The campaign, introduced in a Patch.com article on March 6, 2025, highlights the department’s commitment to public health and showcases a growing partnership between law enforcement, local businesses, and medical researchers.
The Birth of Zero Cancer Grow Give
The idea for Zero Cancer Grow Give originated last year when several Vienna Police officers, many of whom are fathers or grandfathers, were struck by the personal toll that prostate cancer has taken on families across the region. The officers noted that while routine screening and early detection have improved survival rates, the cost of advanced research and clinical trials remains a hurdle for many patients.
“Cancer doesn’t care where you live, what your job is, or what badge you wear,” said Police Chief Michael Harrison in an interview with Patch. “When I saw the stories in our community, I realized we could do more than patrol the streets; we could help keep our citizens alive.”
The Zero Cancer Grow Give program builds on the department’s existing Community Outreach initiatives, leveraging police visibility to draw attention to a cause that affects a significant portion of the Virginia male population. The department’s marketing team created a simple, memorable slogan that encapsulates the mission: Zero Cancer – Grow and Give.
How the Campaign Works
Fundraising Events
The primary vehicle for the campaign will be a series of community events. The first event, scheduled for Saturday, April 27, will take place at the Vienna Town Hall from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Attendees can enjoy live music, a silent auction featuring local artists and artisans, and a keynote address from Dr. Evelyn Miller, a leading urologic oncologist at the Virginia Cancer Institute.
Online Giving Platform
In addition to in‑person events, the department has partnered with a non‑profit foundation to launch an online donation portal at zero‑cancer‑grow‑give.org. The site offers a secure, user‑friendly interface where individuals can donate, set up recurring gifts, and share the campaign on social media.
Volunteer Opportunities
“Zero Cancer Grow Give” is a community effort, and volunteers are essential. The Patch article lists several volunteer roles: event staff, auction auctioneer, online marketing ambassadors, and a “Community Outreach” team that will coordinate with local churches, schools, and businesses. The volunteer page on the department’s website outlines the application process, training schedule, and expectations.
Partnership with Local Hospitals
The campaign is backed by the Virginia Oncology Network, a coalition of regional hospitals, research institutions, and private practices. Through this partnership, the funds raised will directly support research projects focused on biomarker discovery and immunotherapy trials. A spokesperson from the network explained, “We’re looking for grants that can accelerate clinical trials. The funds from Zero Cancer Grow Give will help bridge the gap between basic science and patient care.”
Why Prostate Cancer Matters in Vienna
The Patch article cites data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) to underscore the urgency. In Virginia, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men, with an estimated 13,500 new cases in 2024 alone. While the overall five‑year survival rate for localized disease exceeds 90 %, patients with advanced stages face a much lower survival rate and often incur significant treatment costs.
“Early detection and research are key to reducing mortality,” said Dr. Miller during her speech at the Vienna Town Hall event. “With enough funding, we can develop non‑invasive screening methods and more effective therapies that target the disease at its earliest stages.”
Community Reaction
The initiative has already drawn praise from local leaders. Vienna Mayor Linda Chung called the program “a shining example of how public servants can turn their commitment into concrete action for community well‑being.” In the article, several residents expressed excitement about the partnership:
“I’ve lost a cousin to prostate cancer. If the police can help fund research that might save lives, I’m all in,” said 27‑year‑old resident Aaron Peterson.
“I’ve never seen the police get so involved in health issues,” said 55‑year‑old teacher Sarah Lewis. “It feels good to know they’re looking out for us in this way.”
The Bigger Picture
While Zero Cancer Grow Give is a local effort, the article situates it within a broader national movement. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has recently announced a $3 billion research initiative for prostate cancer, yet critics argue that funding is still too limited for breakthrough therapies. The Vienna program hopes to complement federal efforts with community‑based support.
The patch article also references similar police‑led health initiatives in neighboring counties, such as the “Health Patrol” program in Albemarle County, which focuses on mental health awareness. These examples underscore a growing trend of law‑enforcement agencies taking an active role in public health promotion, breaking the stereotype that policing is limited to law enforcement alone.
How to Get Involved
Attend the Event
The first event is open to the public, with tickets available from $20 for adults and $10 for children. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Vienna Police Department’s office. The article includes a QR code that directs readers to the ticketing page.
Donate
Anyone can contribute to Zero Cancer Grow Give through the online portal or by mailing a check to the Vienna Police Department, PO Box 123, Vienna, VA 22670. The article lists suggested donation amounts, ranging from $25 for “Community Champion” to $500 for “Research Benefactor.”
Volunteer
Volunteers are encouraged to sign up through the department’s volunteer portal. The article details the required background checks and orientation sessions.
Spread the Word
Patched content also encourages community members to share the campaign on social media, using the hashtag #ZeroCancerVienna. The article provides pre‑written posts, photos, and links that can be easily shared.
Closing Thoughts
The Vienna Police Department’s Zero Cancer Grow Give campaign reflects a broader commitment to public service that extends beyond traffic stops and crime prevention. By channeling the department’s resources, visibility, and community trust toward a pressing public health issue, the initiative offers a compelling example of civic responsibility in action.
As Chief Harrison summarized, “We’re not just keeping our streets safe; we’re helping keep our citizens healthy and alive.” The article closes with a hopeful note: “With community support, we can zero in on cancer, grow our knowledge, and give hope to those who need it most.”
Read the Full Patch Article at:
[ https://patch.com/virginia/vienna/vienna-police-seek-support-zero-cancer-grow-give-prostate-cancer-research ]