Hope for the Future
Guided by our vision to conquer cancer through community-engaged education, prevention, treatment, and research – we strive to create a healthier future for the greater Flint community through collaborative cancer solutions. FC3 is not just a research initiative – it is a long-term commitment to building trust, advancing health equity, and, as our tagline says, “Working Together. Fighting Cancer.”
Our History
- The Flint Community Cancer Consortium (FC3) was established in direct response to longstanding concerns from Flint residents about cancer patterns, particularly following the Flint Water Crisis. After the release of two cancer reports by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) in 2020 and 2021, concerns continued to escalate. Community members, providers, and local officials voiced the need for a deeper investigation, asking whether cancer patterns were tied to environmental exposures, geography, or occupation.
- In response, a dedicated Flint community activist Art Woodson began reaching out to policymakers and public health researchers. His efforts helped initiate conversations with national legislators and the White House Cancer Moonshot Initiative. These connections, along with growing momentum from the Michigan State University Charles Stewart Mott Department of Public Health, the University of Michigan School of Public Health, and other academic institutions and community partners, led to the formation of FC3 – a community-academic partnership committed to addressing cancer-related concerns in Flint through research, education, and prevention.
- In January 2023, FC3 hosted a convening where federal scientists from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) joined Flint residents, community leaders, and researchers to shape a shared research agenda.
- Today, FC3 continues to grow as a trusted platform for community-driven cancer research and action. Our work is grounded in a commitment to transparency, equity, and shared leadership.
Community Partnership
A collaborative of Flint-based organizations and local leaders is helping to address cancer-related concerns by sharing trusted information, co-hosting educational events, and supporting ethical, culturally responsive engagement. These partners extend the reach of cancer education and research efforts by embedding them within longstanding community networks and initiatives.
