What is Relay for Life?           Relay for Life is an exciting, community based fund raising program developed by the American Cancer Society. Participants from all walks of life including patients, medical staff, church organizations and community volunteers get together to form groups which, as a team, raise money. Relay is centered on one night where all the teams and members get together as a community to support the fight against cancer.	Relay - Community Event for All
Preparing for Relay	The Relay For Life is centered around one 24-hour period, however much more time and preparation are needed. The event is a gathering of teams. The teams are comprised of 10 to 15 people who are often connected through work, church, or other organizations. The team's purpose is to work as a group to raise money and gather sponsors. In the days, weeks and months before the Relay, each team should conduct fund raising activities to work in as a group. Each team is different and can work best by setting goals and a theme. The day of the Relay, the teams establish a tent around the track or area that the Relay is taking place.
Each team has its own tent area around the track. By the time the Relay begins, the teams have collected the majority of their sponsor money, however several more find raising as well as entertainment activities are held throughout the relay day and night. The opening ceremony includes guest speakers and special starting lap of cancer survivors. Once it gets underway, teams are asked to have members walk around the track all for the entire 24-hour period. Food, games, activities and other entertainment are available as members socialize, walk, rest, and honor their loved ones.	Walking around the track
A Team at Relay	Closing ceremonies begin on the following morning and include a final lap with all participants. This event is not just for team members. Everyone is invited to help friends and family and show their support. Relay for Life is a way for the community to join together to join the fight against cancer. All of the team's money as a whole and all other proceeds go directly to the American Cancer Association. Prizes are awarded to outstanding members and teams. When you become a member, you will learn these specifics. Some contests include best decorated team tent and most laps walked.
The American Cancer Society is the nationwide community-based voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer, saving lives from cancer, and diminishing suffering from cancer through research, education, advocacy and service.