Union Catholic High School in Scotch Plains, NJ will be the first chapter to pilot Movers, Shakers, Change Makers – a signature activity supported by Student Movement Against Cancer’s national organization and network. Movers, Shakers, Change Makers will be an opportunity for members of the SMAC network and their peers to coalesce as a community of leaders and advocates, honor individuals in the community impacted by a cancer diagnosis, and raise funds for a philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting individuals or initiatives in the fight against cancer. 

This event will feature friendly competitions with exciting prizes, a chance for student leaders to meet and mingle, and most importantly, to raise money and awareness for this year's honoree, the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation. All proceeds from our event will go to supporting the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation’s mission to provide New Jersey families facing the crisis of pediatric cancer a place to turn for comfort and support through professional in-home counseling and a uniquely tailored package of assistance – all free-of-charge.

Each registered participant will receive a free wrist pedometer at check-in to help them monitor their movement for the evening, with prizes being awarded throughout the event and at the night's conclusion to honor the students who have moved the most. It is our hope that this welcome gift serves the dual purpose of instilling a fun sense of competition while also providing a useful tool for measuring individual activity levels in the days, weeks, and months ahead. Education about active lifestyles and promoting positive health habits will be incorporated throughout the event as a way to further highlight SMAC’s role as a source of cancer education and awareness raising.