What is Relay For Life?

Relay For Life is the American Cancer Society's signature activity. It offers everyone in a community a chance to participate in the fight against cancer. Teams of people camp out at a local high school, park or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Relays are an overnight event, up to 24 hours in length.

Because Relay For Life is a community gathering rather than an athletic event, anyone and everyone can participate. Teams form from businesses, clubs, families, friends, hospitals, churches, schools, and service organizations. Team members share a common purpose — to support the American Cancer Society’s mission.

Relay For Life also raises funds. Teams solicit donations, have garage sales, hold car washes, and more. If you need more help or have any other questions about Relay For Life, contact your local ACS office or call 1-800-ACS-2345.

One of Idaho's Newest Relay Events

For years, friends and neighbors from communities along the Clearwater and Salmon Rivers, as well as the Camas Prairie, traveled to Lewiston, ID or Clarkston, WA to participate in the Snake River Relay for Life.  As the participation of north central residents increased, a handful of energetic volunteers felt they could host a successful local Relay for Life event to Grangeville, Idaho in July, 2005.  The inspiration of a few has broadened into a surge of enthusiasm, through the support of additional volunteers, area communities, civic organizations, businesses and individuals.  This energy promises to make this a great event for all.

Where Does the Money Raised Really Go?

The American Cancer Society operates on 20% of their budget. Thanks to all the millions of volunteers in the world of cancer, 80% of all funds raised goes to cancer research, education, and free community programs such as Reach To Recovery, Road To Recovery, Look Good Feel Better, and many more.

Why should I participate?

Very few people in our society today have not been affected by cancer. We all have or have known someone who has been diagnosed with this disease. Relay is all about honoring those we love who have battled and/or beaten cancer by gathering together and letting them know how proud we are of their fight. Relay is also about never forgetting those who did not win that battle and to promote hope for the future. We will never quit until there is a cure!!

If you would like to help plan this event, sponsor a team, captain a team, or just participate on a team and have a great time doing it, just contact one of our committee members for more information. We are looking forward to a great Relay in Grangeville this summer!!