Community Foundation of Broward Awards $900,000 in Grants for Cancer Research

The Community Foundation of Broward has taken a significant step forward in the fight against cancer by awarding two new grants totaling $900,000. These grants are directed towards groundbreaking research projects at Memorial Foundation and Nova Southeastern University (NSU), each receiving $450,000 over three years. This initiative underscores the Foundation's commitment to making cutting-edge cancer research and treatments more accessible to the residents of Broward County, particularly those in underserved communities.

One of the funded projects, led by the Memorial Foundation, focuses on lung cancer biomarkers and precision therapy. This research aims to expand a biobank by collecting and analyzing samples from 150 lung cancer patients, including those from diverse backgrounds and at various stages of the disease. The collaboration between Memorial Cancer Institute and Florida Atlantic University's Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine is expected to pave the way for personalized treatment plans based on tumor biology and resistance patterns.

The second grant supports NSU's research into exosome-based immunotherapies for melanoma. This study explores how exosomes from melanoma cells treated with specific inhibitors can enhance the immune system's ability to combat the disease. The findings could lead to the development of more effective melanoma treatments, offering hope to patients not only in Broward but globally.

These grants are part of the Community Foundation's broader effort to address health equity gaps in cancer care. By prioritizing inclusive research and treatment options, the Foundation aims to ensure that all Broward residents, regardless of their socioeconomic status, have access to the best possible cancer care. Since 2016, the Foundation and its fundholders have invested over $3 million in local cancer research, significantly contributing to the advancement of clinical trials and patient support systems.

The impact of these grants extends beyond the immediate benefits to cancer patients. They represent a vital investment in the future of cancer research, with the potential to attract additional funding and collaboration. The Community Foundation of Broward's initiative not only highlights the importance of local philanthropy in advancing medical research but also sets a precedent for how communities can come together to tackle some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.