Today we’d like to introduce you to Tami Siebert.
Hi Tami, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started working for the American Cancer Society about 2.5 yrs ago because cancer has touched my life in deeply personal ways. I’ve lost dear friends to colon and ovarian cancer, and I’ve had family members diagnosed. Those experiences fuel my passion for this mission. I love seeing survivors—because every survivor represents hope and progress.
As a Development Manager, I manage three Relay For Life events in Oakdale, White Bear Lake, and Oakdale. I also lead the Gold Together for Childhood Cancer MNDakota initiative, because a child never outgrows the services of the American Cancer Society. Every dollar raised helps fund research, patient support, and programs that make a real difference to our youngest warriors and their families.
The mission of the American Cancer Society is to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. That’s what drives me every day—because together, we can fight
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. Before joining the American Cancer Society, I worked in Duluth as an event planner and as the Northern Minnesota Walk Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association—a role that was emotionally challenging at times. When my husband and I decided to move to the Twin Cities, I was contacted by ACS about joining their team. At first, I wasn’t sure I wanted another job that would make me cry. But then my dear friend Heidi was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. She encouraged me to take this role and to be a voice for screening awareness. Heidi had completed the “box test,” but it didn’t detect anything, and by the time she was diagnosed, it was too late. That moment changed everything for me—I knew I needed to do something. Moving to a new community and building meaningful relationships has been a challenge, but I feel so blessed to have been welcomed by incredible people who share this mission.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I manage three Relay For Life events—Tartan, White Bear Lake, and Stillwater—where I specialize in bringing the fun to fundraising. My goal is to create unique experiences where people make amazing memories while supporting a life-saving mission. I’m known for planning events that go beyond the ordinary—where you can listen to live music, hold a baby kangaroo, walk through an inflatable colon, take a photo with the Ghostbusters, participate in a moving luminaria ceremony, and celebrate cancer survivors—all in one day.
In addition, I lead the Gold Together for Childhood Cancer initiative, partnering with third-party events that donate toward research, patient support, and advocacy for our youngest cancer warriors and their families. These partnerships include incredible experiences like Valleyfair’s annual family day, the Rock For Life concert, kickball tournaments, the Just For Kids Foundation Golf Tournament, BluSky Restoration’s Clays for Kids, and—new this year—the Going Bananas 2-mile family fun run in Spring Park, MN.
What sets me apart is my passion for connecting people with opportunities that are meaningful to them. I’m always looking for ways to make involvement easy, exciting, and impactful, and I’m proud to work alongside amazing volunteers and colleagues across Minnesota and the Dakotas to create moments of joy and purpose that truly make a difference.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Networking and mentorship are all about building authentic relationships. For me, being active in the community has been key. I’m a member of four chambers of commerce, and I truly believe the people who attend these events are the heart of the community. Chambers provide a great space to meet business leaders, volunteers, and potential partners who care about making a difference.
I also make it a priority to volunteer with other organizations—like schools and Lion’s Clubs—because giving back opens doors to meaningful connections. Speaking engagements and presentations have been another powerful tool. When I share ACS information—screening guidelines, health tips, support resources, and ways to get involved—I’m not just educating; I’m creating opportunities for conversations that often lead to lasting partnerships.
My best advice? Show up, give value, and be genuine. People remember those who contribute and care. Start by asking, “How can I help?” and you’ll find mentors and allies who want to help you in return.
Pricing:
- $10 donation can help people find hope and support online through our Cancer Survivors Network.
- $25 donation can help people facing breast cancer connect with trained survivors through our Reach TO Recovery program.
- $30 donation could help 1 person find free answers and much needed support through our 24-hour helpline.
- $50 donation can help provide 1 free ride to treatment through our Road To Recovery program.
- $70 donation can help provide 1 free night’s stay at one of the 31 nation wide Hope Lodge community for people with cancer and their caregivers.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cancer.org www.relayfor life/whitebearlakearea www.relayfor life/Stillwater www.relayfor life/Tartan www.GoldTogetherMinnesota
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tartan_relay/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rflwhitebearlakemn / https://www.facebook.com/groups/rflstillwatermn / https://www.facebook.com/groups/goldtogethermn
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tami-siebert-20537a6/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvHKPKsj14U / https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6qgYQ4xyl8A&t=7s
