Relay for Life volunteers needed

The Relay for Life is American Cancer Society's signature event. It offers everyone in the Darke County community the opportunity to participate in the fight against cancer. Teams of volunteers camp out during the 18 hour overnight event, which features food, music, and fun. The event is designed to raise funds to improve the quality of life for cancer patients today and the outlook for those diagnosed in the future.

Volunteers bring their personal stories and vision to the fundraising efforts of the Relay event. These volunteers are neighbors, friends, and relatives who desire to work together to raise awareness, network with cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, family and friends and help in the fight against cancer. The funds raised go to the American Cancer Society to fight against all types of cancer, as well as, provide support programs.

One such support program is the Hope Lodge, which offers cancer patients and their caregivers a free, temporary place to stay when their best hope for effective treatment may be in another city. Not having to worry about where to stay or how to pay for lodging allows guests to focus on getting well. Hope Lodge provides a nurturing, home-like environment where guests can retreat to private rooms or connect with others. Every Hope Lodge also offers a variety of resources and information about cancer and how best to fight the disease.

Currently, there are 31 Hope Lodge locations throughout the United States. Last year these facilities housed 50,000 people while they underwent treatment.

But more volunteers are needed. If you would like to be a part of Darke County’s “2014 Relay For Life” you may contact Event Chair Rose Schlater at schlater48@embarqmail.com or (937) 526-5151 or attend the next meeting from 6:30 - 7:30 pm on Monday, April 14th at the Shawnee Prairie Preserve, Greenville. Together we can make a difference!