American Childhood Cancer Organization ( ACCO ) began in 1970 by a group of parents whose children had been diagnosed with cancer. They came together to lobby for more research, and to support each other through the diagnosis and treatment of this life threatening disease at a time when very few children survived. Today, ACCO is one of the largest grassroots, national organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children and adolescents with cancer and their families. We are strong advocates for our families in Washington D.C., we produce the highest quality materials on childhood cancer, and we have over 40 local affiliate organizations across the country providing direct services to the families in their communities.