The 20th Relay for Life of Greene County, held Saturday at the Greene County Community Center, netted about $40,000 for the American Cancer Society. That’s a decrease from years past, but according to Relay for Life chair Peg Raney, the committee is happy with the total, considering there were fewer teams this year.
Teams have until August to complete fundraising, so team totals have not been announced.
The silent auction raised more than previous years, with a total of $5,876 raised by auctioning many donated items. “This committee works so hard to gather unique items and gift certificates. These are are very much appreciated,” Raney said.
The cash sponsorships from businesses, organizations and individuals totaled $12,250. Platinum sponsors – $1,250 or more – were recognized at the Relay. Kristen Russell (left) and Mark Lane (right) accepted a plaque from Raney on behalf of AAI/Spalding.
Members of the Jefferson Kiwanis Club and the Aktion Club accepted a plaque noting their platinum sponsorship.
In-kind sponsorships totaled another $5,025. The in-kind sponsorships are not included in the total of funds raised, Raney explained, but they save expenses of putting on the Relay.
Greene County Medical Center sponsored the survivor/caregiver reception and special T-shirts designed by ShineOn Designs. All survivors were invited to be part of a celebratory group photo before the Survivor Lap.
The Color Out Cancer 5K run/walk attracted 125 runners and walkers in nearly perfect weather.
New at this year’s Relay were “purple glove dances,” choreographed by Ann Ostendorf and Autumn Larson. Everyone at the Relay was invited to join in, and many fun-loving people did.
Home State Bank was the winner this year of the bank donation decorating contest. They will win a pizza party. Coloring contest winners were Shia in Mrs Zmolek’s kindergarten class, Evelyn from Mrs Wallace’s first grade, Becca from the Paton-Churdan second grade, Daniele from Mrs Shannon’s third grade, and Paige from the P-C fourth grade. Nearly 500 children entered the coloring contest.
Donations for the Relay for Life of Greene County will be accepted until August. Click here for information.
