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FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. \u2014 In 2020, Cindy Payne stepped into the role of Executive Director of Cancer Support Community Arizona (CSCAZ), after 30 years of service at Northern Arizona University, bringing with her decades of experience in education, counseling, and community engagement. Today, Payne serves as the sole paid employee for CSCAZ in Northern Arizona, a role she says would not be possible without the support of Northern Arizona University\u2019s Social Work program.<\/p>\n
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Cancer Support Community Arizona serves anyone impacted by any cancer, at any stage and at any age. That includes patients, family members, caregivers, and others affected by a diagnosis. All services are provided free of charge and include support groups, educational workshops, healthy lifestyle classes, social connection opportunities, referrals, and a wig salon.<\/p>\n
The organization, established in Arizona in 1998, expanded to Flagstaff in 2021 to serve communities across Northern Arizona. It is an affiliate of an international cancer support network.<\/p>\n
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Payne, who holds a master\u2019s degree in counseling and a doctorate in educational leadership and learning, said she knew immediately that social work interns would be central to the organization\u2019s success.<\/p>\n
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Payne says:<\/p>\n
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\u201cI do have interns both from the BSW and the MSW programs. Faculty member Sheila Hammer serves on our Professional Advisory Council, and faculty member Stephanie Dove serves on our Northern Arizona Advisory Council.\u00a0 This academic year I have two MSW interns and two BSW interns. Our interns help run our office, our wig salon, and they meet one-on-one with cancer patients at local oncology clinics to establish relationships of support for those receiving chemo or immunotherapy treatments.\u201d<\/p>\n
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In addition to client support, interns gain firsthand experience in nonprofit sustainability. They learn about the financial challenges facing small community organizations and help educate donors about CSCAZ\u2019s designation as an Arizona Tax Credit Qualified Charitable Organization. That status allows Arizona taxpayers to receive a dollar-for-dollar state tax credit for contributions, helping sustain the organization\u2019s free services.<\/p>\n
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For Payne, the model represents a powerful combination of education and service, stating, \u201cWe would not exist and I could not function without our NAU Social Work Interns.\u201d<\/p>\n
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As CSCAZ continues serving Northern Arizona, Payne emphasizes the organization\u2019s core belief: no one should face cancer alone. Through partnerships, community support, and student engagement, the organization continues expanding access to free psychosocial services for individuals and families navigating one of life\u2019s most difficult challenges.<\/p>\n