North Allegheny's CARE club makes cancer education, research accessible to teens

Avni Khandelwal’s curingwithCARE is there to help young people who are dealing with the effects of cancer.

The North Allegheny senior started the group after seeing the challenges firsthand in her own family.

“My cousin battled synovial sarcoma while living with my family, and his journey made me realize how much young people are affected by cancer, whether directly or through loved ones,” she said.

In addition to being a member of her school’s Community Cancer Outreach Club, Khandelwal wanted to provide support specifically for teens and young adults by making cancer education, research involvement and community impact accessible.

With that inspiration and motivation, Khandelwal decided to start curingwithCARE — Cancer Awareness, Research and Education — in 2023 to expand and spread its mission.

“Most cancer organizations focus on adults and older patients, leaving teens without a space to engage in cancer awareness and advocacy. CARE is ‘for youth, by youth,’ making it approachable and relevant,” Khandelwal said.

Currently, North Allegheny’s CARE club has grown to 119 total members, with 67 from the senior high and 52 from the intermediate high school, she said.

Additionally, the group has grown to 40 chapters and more than 500 members worldwide, she said.

“We use social media to spread education in an accessible way, host engaging events like dunk tanks and trivia nights, and provide teens with direct ways to contribute — whether by fundraising, creating hospital care packages or even engaging in research initiatives,” she said.

Members recently hosted their biggest fundraiser of the year, Daffodil Days, in conjunction with the American Cancer Society. Students at the intermediate and senior high schools had the option to purchase tulips and daffodils for teachers, family and friends. This year, the students raised $2,412. Last year, they raised $3,269.

“Over the summer, we are planning to host a booth at the Relay for Life in Butler County, as well as partner with another local organization to provide baked treats for cancer patients undergoing treatment,” Khandelwal said.

Other events CARE hosts include Pink Out games, hospital donation drives, cards and crafts for cancer patients, fundraisers like trivia nights and bake sales, races like Relay for Life and other 5Ks, educational campaigns, and even seminars that connect students with oncologists and researchers to discuss cancer prevention.

“We’ve also done field trips across the country to different hospitals to educate young adults,” Khandelwal said.

CARE has four chapters at schools in the Pittsburgh region, including North Allegheny, Seton La Salle, South Fayette and Upper St. Clair. It is looking to expand to Fox Chapel Area, Hampton and Sewickley Academy next year.

The two Pittsburgh regional directors are Anish Ramachundruni of North Allegheny and Rohan Paranjpe of South Fayette School District.

“Their leadership and communication skills have been invaluable in expanding CARE in Pittsburgh and helping organize regional events,” she said.

Khandelwal credits her “incredible team” for their accomplishments, including fellow students, all juniors, Aditi Motha, the group’s chief operating officer; Snigdha Yandra, the chief marketing officer; Siddh Kapil, the director of chapters; and Anish Kondoju, the chief administrative officer.

“I’m incredibly proud every time we raise thousands of dollars for the American Cancer Society through events such as Daffodil Days because it’s amazing to know that our efforts are making a real difference,” Motha said. “But what has impacted me the most are the smaller, more personal moments. For example, delivering crafts to patients at UPMC Shadyside Hospital during Christmas has been one of the most meaningful experiences for me because it allows me to see firsthand the real impact of my actions. Watching a patient’s face light up has shown me that even the smallest gestures can bring comfort and joy during incredibly difficult times.

“NA CARE, to me, isn’t just about fundraising. It’s about showing up, offering support and reminding people they’re not alone.”

Chapters in Dubai, Canada and India have brought in a whole new perspective on how different countries approach cancer awareness, research and treatment, Khandelwal said.

“Even though we’re thousands of miles apart, the mission stays the same, and seeing students globally passionate about this cause is inspiring,” she said.

Now, with only a couple months of her senior year left at North Allegheny, Khandelwal has big plans for the future and high hopes for CARE.

“I plan to pursue medicine and continue advocating for cancer awareness and education. I’m yet to commit to a college, but I am eager to continue making a difference no matter where I go. I’ll stay involved with curingwithCARE at a national level, helping expand its reach and impact while mentoring younger leaders who will oversee the organization,” she said.

For details about the organization, visit curingwithcare.org.