Time to Compete is a nonprofit foundation dedicated to bettering the lives of young adults battling cancer
adults aged 19 to 29 are diagnosed with cancer annually
%
can’t afford basic living costs
%
higher mortality rate for young adults from lower socioeconomic backgrounds
Perhaps the most heart wrenching numbers are the number of people who die while alone from cancer. Simply put, building support communities for young adults facing cancer increases survival rates as it reminds them that they are not alone.
We Want To Help Them
Time To Compete
Time to Compete is a nonprofit foundation dedicated to bettering the lives of young adults battling cancer. Through financial aid, education, community building, and unique partnerships, our mission is to make sure no one fights cancer alone. We’re a community-led nonprofit founded on perseverance, unity, and vulnerability. With every step we take, we aim to provide hope, build strength, and uplift spirits for young adults undergoing cancer treatments. Together, it’s Time to Compete.
Who We Are: A Nonprofit Supporting Young People
Cancer patients with health insurance can expect to spend around $6,000 to $10,000 per year out of pocket on cancer treatment. Uninsured cancer patients pay an average of around $45,000 for the first year of treatment, $114,000 for the final year of treatment and $7,000 per year for any treatment in between those two years.
We strive to fill the gaps where care systems fall short, offering both emotional and practical support during challenging times. Through every initiative, we remind each person affected by cancer: we’re here competing alongside you.
How We Help Our Community
Financial Support
We partner with Maine healthcare systems to distribute “TTC Bags” that include gift cards for groceries, gas, utilities and other essential daily needs during and after treatment.
Financial Support
We partner with Maine healthcare systems to distribute “TTC Bags” that include gift cards for groceries, gas, utilities and other essential daily needs during and after treatment.
Community Building
We organize events such as sports activities, social gatherings, outings and creative workshops to support our mission as a nonprofit. In parallel to medical treatment, we aim to foster the supportive community and connections that offer cancer patients a chance to experience the empowerment of being on a team of their peers.
Athlete Engagement
We team up with athletes and teams of all levels, inviting them to join the Time to Compete team and share their stories about what Time to Compete means to them.
Are You an Athlete or Team Rep Looking to Help? Click Here
Peer-to-Peer Relationships
Our supportive network aims to connect people going through cancer treatments with others who have had a similar journey. This network is designed to reduce feelings of isolation among young cancer patients. By fostering connections and encouraging shared experiences, we help reclaim normalcy, confidence, and strength from those facing similar challenges.
It Started With Gibson’s Story
Gibson Harnett established “Time to Compete” in 2023 after being diagnosed with late-stage clear cell sarcoma. Time to Compete became his mantra throughout his treatment, embodying his courage and resilience in the face of adversity Recognizing that many young adults lack the support he had, Gibson created Time to Compete to improve the lives of young adults battling cancer through financial aid, education, and community support. He aimed to ensure no one felt alone in their fight.
If you or someone you know is in need of support, we are here to help.
Who we help:
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- Individuals from Maine
- Young adults aged 19-29
- Individuals with Cancer diagnosis
The simple two-step process can be initiated by having the patient’s health care or social worker fill out an online form.
If you are from Maine and your healthcare system or social worker isn’t connected to Time to Compete, let us know, and we’ll do our best to make it happen. Together, we can bring more support to those in need.
If you are from Maine and your healthcare system or social worker isn’t connected to Time to Compete, let us know, and we’ll do our best to make it happen. Together, we can bring more support to those in need.
