Relay for Life, the largest annual fundraising event for the American Cancer Society, returns to East Ridge High School June 6. The event is an overnight community fundraising walk where members of relay teams take turns walking around the school’s track. Participants can also take advantage of the food, scheduled games and activities.
“[Relay for Life is] a party with a purpose,” says Michelle Alpers, team development chair of Relay for Life’s South Washington County event. Alpers mentors relay team captains and recruits new participants. But she doesn’t just stay behind the scenes; she participates as a member of the Valley Crossing Community School relay team.
In 2005, Woodbury resident and Relay for Life event co-chair Dave Olson’s wife and mother-in-law were both diagnosed with cancer. His wife survived, and nine years later, Olson, a former co-chair, continues to be part of the event planning committee. For him, the event isn’t just about raising money; it’s to “celebrate survivors and honor those we’ve lost,” he says.
For more information or to register, visit relayforlife.org
WHAT: Relay for Life
WHEN: June 6, 6 p.m.–6 a.m.
WHERE: East Ridge High School, 4200 Pioneer Drive
