'Is the Livestrong Foundation bigger than its founder? Will it survive?’

by Gary Snyder


An update from Chronicle of Philanthropy

1. Livestrong set about charting an independent course (from Lance Armstrong) forward by: • Refashioning its logo to include “Foundation” underneath the Livestrong name. Mr. Miller said the thousands of cancer survivors form the “foundation” beneath Livestrong: • Moving Livestrong Day, which calls attention to the organization’s work globally, from October 2, the anniversary of Mr. Armstrong’s original cancer diagnosis, to May 17, the month and date of the launch of the Livestrong wristbands nine years ago; • Training its top volunteers in how to handle the controversy. At a session in Chicago, volunteer fundraisers were given talking points for responding to inquires about Mr. Armstrong’s involvement with the organization. Replies could include: “The Livestrong Foundation’s mission is bigger than its founder” and “It was never about one person.” 
2. Livestrong conceded that fewer people are giving, however, and that the total amount donated didn't drop sharply because the average sum each donor gives has been higher. The bigger average gifts have resulted from an aggressive push to donors at the height of the Armstrong scandal.
3. Livestrong is at a pivotal moment in its history. Now in its 16th year, the charity says the number of donors has dropped in recent months, so it wants to be clear that its work has nothing to do with the performance-enhancing drug scandal involving Mr. Armstrong.

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