While the past few years have meant many changes for all of us, one thing that hasn't changed is the need to continue the fight against cancer.
Getting back to previous levels of successful fundraising with events scheduled for 2023 is the mission for many hardworking volunteer teams, including those behind the local American Cancer Society Relay For Life.
Relay for Life is the world’s largest volunteer-based fundraising event. For more than 36 years, communities across the world have hosted local Relay for Life events in celebration of those who have survived and in remembrance of those loved ones lost to the disease.
That includes the local event scheduled for Friday, June 23rd being hosted at the Michigan Farmers Market at the corner of Ashmun and Portage.
“It’s so important as a fundraiser because cancer has affected and continues to affect so many,” said Andie Aiello, an Event Leadership Team Captain with the American Cancer Society. “I think you would be hard pressed to have a conversation with just about anyone that hasn’t been affected in some way, shape, or form in their life by cancer. The good news is the strides we have made and the increase in survivorship as a result of the dollars we’ve been able to raise is significant.”
Supporters of the American Cancer Society host many events during the year, with the Relay for Life being one of the largest.
Participants annually conduct their own pre-event fundraising, with various other opportunities to give conducted along the relay route. This includes the sale of symbolic white bags that contain the names, photos, and other memories of people affected by cancer. However, the event is open to anyone interested in learning more about current cancer research and also those simply looking to enjoy a great social event.
“This year we’ve got a carnival theme so there are lots of way for people just coming to the event to be engaged and enjoy themselves,” said Aiello. “There will be lots of games and snacks available with proceeds that will go back to the American Cancer Society. It’s a very easy way to help out. Every dollar we raise truly makes a difference.”
Organizers of this year’s event has set a goal of raising $20,000, but Aiello said they’re being realistic about their objectives given the interruption in their fundraising events caused by Covid.
“Like many events since the pandemic came along we were hit hard,” she said. “We’re kind of back at the grass roots level trying to develop the event again. In the past this was a 24-hour event to symbolize the fact that people living with cancer do so 24 hours a day. This year our event is five hours long. We are hoping a shorter event this year will make it possible for more businesses and volunteers to take part. We will be in need of extra hands for games and activities. If you can spare even an hour, please stop by. Our goal this year is to hold a smaller event, making big impact, with the intent to move back to something more along the lines of our larger Relay events down the road.
The local Relay for Life runs 5:00pm till 10:00 pm in Sault Ste. Marie. Things will kick off with an optional 1 mile walk at 5:30 p.m.
Ceremonies will begin with the Survivor/Caregiver Ceremony at 7:00 p.m. For more information, to join a team, or to donate, simply search Relay for Life. Email local organizers at [email protected].
The American Cancer Society is a volunteer driven, staff supported 501C-3 non-profit organization with the mission statement to "Save Lives, Celebrate Lives & Lead the Fight for a World Without Cancer."
With over 1.5 million volunteers nationwide, the ACS attacks cancer from every angle through cancer research, education, advocacy and family services. Find out more by visiting them online or calling 1.800.227.2345.