Fulfilling a Commitment
Prior to Dr. Post’s formation of ACF in 1999, the organization operated as a fund within the Orentreich Foundation for the Advancement of Science, Inc. (OFAS). The fund, created for those who wanted to make donations intended for research that would help animals with cancer, was so successful that it led directly to the formation of ACF. Since then and going forward, ACF owes an on-going debt of gratitude to Dr. Norman Orentreich, founder of OFAS, for his vision and support in initiating the first step toward the realization of ACF’s goals. The following are highlights from subsequent phases of our onward journey
08.99 The Animal Cancer Foundation, The Ruth and Sam Newman Initiative, is formally introduced. The organization is named in memory of Dr. Post’s grandparents, “two people who cherished life and whose love, compassion and understanding of all things human and animal will always be remembered.”
09.99 ACF immediately begins on-going collaborative endeavors with The Rogosin Institute, a nonprofit medical treatment and research initiative at the New York Weill (Cornell) Medical Center. Projects include the investigation of 
innovative therapies targeted at the suppression of cancer cell growth.
02.00 Launch of the ACF website (www.animalcancer.org).
06.00 First ACF fundraiser held at the
Otto Kahn Mansion in New York. The event raises $15,000.
04.01 The second ACF spring fundraiser at the Otto Khan Mansion raises $30,000.
07.01 Samantha Schmidt, a dedicated animal lover with extensive experience in non-profit 
development, is named Executive Director of ACF.
09.01 Along with other New York City veterinarians,
Dr. Post helps care for pets affected by the 9/11 tragedy.
11.01 First ACF Newsletter is published.
02.02 ACF begins collaboration with SUGEN* in advanced biotech research initiatives designed to benefit both pets
and people.
04.02 In Boston, ACF participates in American Cancer Society’s Second Annual Dogwalk Against Cancer. Combined with the previous year, the New England Division of the American Cancer Society donated $11,000 to ACF.
05.02 ACF’s third annual silent auction fundraiser is held at Manhattan’s elegant Barbetta restaurant. It produces a new record in attendance and amount raised ($50,000).
07.02 In the popular national publication Animal Fair, Dr. Post authors a feature on the warning signs of cancer in animals.
11.02 A study on the high incidence of bone cancer in Rottweilers is published in a prominent medical journal, Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention. The study is the result of a collaboration between Purdue University and the Gerald P. Murphy Cancer Foundation, and includes the participation of ACF.
12.02 Dazzling Christmas decorations at the home of Christine and Howie Frisch in Baldwin Harbor, New York raises a total of $5,000 for ACF.
03.03 ACF publishes its first Annual Report.
04.03 ACF’s fourth annual fundraiser revisits the Barbetta Restaurant and raises $66,000. The event honors author and artist Stephen Huneck who, in recognition of his generous donation of time, talent and art, is presented with a Steuben handcooler sculpture of a dog and cat.
11.03 ACF launches its first Annual Appeal which is the initial phase of a year-long plan to raise $200,000 in support of the foundation's strategic alliances.
12.03 Christine and Howie Frisch present their fund-raising Christmas decorations for a second year. Sadly, it is the last Holiday Season their beloved Golden Retriever, Clyde, will see. He was the inspiration for their greatly appreciated generosity to ACF, and we remember him not only here but in our hearts.
01.04 A strategic planning retreat, for the ACF Board and executive staff , produces a revitalized mission, long-range vision and a new programmatic philosophy centered on research alliances and educational initiatives.
10.04 Launch of ACF’s updated website.
