How to Get Involved in Relay for Life

Relay for Life is the signature fundraising event of the American Cancer Society. Relay for Life brings in billions every year towards programs for cancer patients and research toward a cure. Getting involved is easy. Just follow these steps to get involved and make a difference in your community in the fight against cancer.

Instructions

1. Visit the American Cancer Society home page to learn more about Relay for Life.

2. Search for a Relay for Life event in your area at the Relay for Life home page.

3. Call your local American Cancer Society office and ask for the contact information for your local Relay for Life event.

4. Watch for flyers or newspaper ads announcing the general planning meeting for Relay for Life.

5. Join an existing team and help fundraise and walk in support of someone you love. Or you can head-up a team and gather friends, family and co-workers to be on your team.

6. Brainstorm fundraisers for your group. Events like car washes and bake sales work for some teams while others sell candy, magazines or other items. Also plan to set up a booth at the actual event where you can continue your fundraising efforts by selling either edible goodies or collectibles.

7. Show up at the event and have a great time. You can either set up a team tent, participate by performing onstage as a singing or dancing act, or just walk the track, eat and visit with friends. Just being there is a moving experience.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't miss the Luminaria ceremony. It is a touching, beautiful tribute to cancer survivors and those lost in the fight against cancer. It occurs after dark when the track is lined with paper bags containing sand and a votive candle. Each bag bears the name of someone who has survived or died of cancer.

• Companies like Oriental Trading Company are great sources for inexpensive, easy-to-sell collectibles or toys. Their items are sold in bulk and they are inexpensive, so your team can easily make 100% profit on them without having to price items higher than $1 or $2 each.

• Relay for Life is an overnight event. While not everyone stays all night, be prepared to camp to take it all in.

Resources

• American Cancer Society Home Page
• Relay for Life Home Page
• Website for Oriental Trading Company where you can find inexpensive items to sell for a fundraiser