Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
The Relay for Life event is moving indoors to the Gordon Recreation Center on the Grace College campus this spring.
After years of holding a summer celebration, the group decided the conflict with other events is too great.
"And last year it was blistering hot," said Rachel Gorman, Relay For Life organizer. "Many survivors are elderly or handicapped."
This year's Relay for Life is March 24-25 from 6 p.m. Friday until noon Saturday. Registration and check-in begins at 4 p.m.
The Kosciusko County Relay for Life is one of the country's most successful fundraisers benefiting the American Cancer Society, collecting more than $50,000 two years ago. Last year about $18,000 was raised.
The ACS uses a portion of the funds for research and the rest goes to cancer patients to offset various costs.
Cancer survivors and their families are invited to share appetizers and desserts.
Balloons with lights will be part of the Ceremony of Hope this year, instead of the lighted bags. The balloons will be released, sending "messages to heaven."
Each balloon represents a survivor or a loved one who died.
Memorials will be accepted and hung on a wall. The memorials can feature pictures, tributes and poetry, as the writer wishes.
Much of the money raised comes from sponsored teams. Team members, comprised of 10 to 15 people, ideally have someone walking the rec center's indoor track during the 18-hour event "because cancer never sleeps." Team sign-up costs are $100. Individuals may participate in the event for $50.
The teams also participate in activities dressing in costume following this year's theme: "Fairy tales really do come true and with your help we can eliminate cancer."
There will be a contest involving "little pigs" and house building, Jacks who are nimble, princes, princesses, dwarves and horses of various colors.
Each team site will be judged.
Individuals and teams may register online at www.acsevents.org/relay/in/kosciusko
Gorman said more committee members are welcome. Teams have until July 1 to raise money.
For more information, call Gorman at 574-268-5208; Sue Bruce, 574-267-4450; Wanda Carter, 574-269-9906; or Randy Hankins, 574-551-7539.
Joyce Columbo is the ACS coordinator out of Mishawaka, 260-261-6212.
