On behalf of our sponsors at Northwestern Mutual, we're learning that each day, more than 1,000 families worldwide face the unimaginable: a childhood cancer diagnosis. Beyond the emotional toll, the financial burden can be overwhelming. Studies show that 60% of families lose significant household income because of a childhood cancer diagnosis.
Through its Childhood Cancer Scholarship Program (CCSP), Northwestern Mutual is helping ease that burden. Each year, Northwestern Mutual awards students who have been affected by childhood cancer, either as a survivor or a sibling, with scholarships to pursue higher education. The scholarship represents what the company calls, “goldeNMoments™”, or moments of joy, stories of resilience and community impact that are lighting the way toward a cancer-free future.
To date, more than 370 scholarships have been awarded through the program, totaling over $3 million. This impact extends beyond financial support: nearly half of recipients have pursued careers in nursing, medicine, or other health care-related fields — many inspired by the care teams and medical professionals who supported them and their families during their own journey.
For the 2026–27 academic year, the Northwestern Mutual Foundation will award 25 survivors and 25 siblings a combined $500,000 in scholarships. Each recipient receives $5,000, with the option to renew for a second year. Applications open Dec. 1, 2025 and close Feb. 2, 2026. In this segment, Everyday Northwest's Nicole DeCosta spoke with Steve Radke — President with the Northwestern Mutual Foundation — so we can learn more.