KINGSTON, R.I.- February 24, 2017- The University of Rhode Island organization of Colleges Against Cancer will hold its 13th annual Relay for Life fundraiser on the Kingston campus Saturday. March 4 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Mackal Field House, 75 Keaney Road.
The event is open to the URI campus and members of the local community. Participants may register before the event by making a $15 donation or make a $25 donation at the door the day of the event. To register, click here.
The URI Chapter of Colleges Against Cancer emphasized that the event isn’t just about raising money for cancer research, but also an opportunity for students to make a difference in the lives of those fighting this disease.
Colleges Against Cancer seeks survivors and supporters to come together for a fun and inspiring program. Last year, Relay for Life at URI raised more than $30,000, an amount the group hopes to surpass this year. More than 800 people will try to reach this year’s goal of $35,000.
“Relay for Life is a unique event because it offers the opportunity for reflection,” said Tim O’Connor, vice president of Colleges Against Cancer and junior biomedical engineering major. “It truly is an event where participants can celebrate survivors, remember those who are fighting and those we have lost, and fight back by fundraising.”
Each Relay for Life starts with the opening ceremony followed by the survivors’ lap during which all those who have won their fight have the chance to inspire others with their courage. There will also be the Luminaria Ceremony when small bags are illuminated in memory of those who have died of cancer.
“The Luminaria Ceremony is my favorite part of the day,” said O’Connor, a resident of Needham, Mass. “It serves as a personal reminder of everyone in not only my life but the lives of people around me who have been touched by cancer in one way or another. It is great to see everyone come together to support this cause”
Recruiting participants for this event is a task that sophomore nursing major and Colleges Against Cancer secretary Jill Asmar made her priority. “This year, we are trying to get the off- campus community more involved” the Windsor Locks, Conn. resident said. “As the liaison for the recruitment and sponsorship committees, I have reached out to local businesses, including Albie’s and Starbucks in Wakefield. I have also been passing fliers out at local supermarkets in hopes of getting as many people as possible together to raise money for the American Cancer Society.”
Students may email collegesagainstcancer@rhodysenate.org with questions or concerns or find the group on Facebook by searching “Relay for Life of URI.”
Olivia Ross, an intern in the Marketing and Communications Department at URI and public relations major, wrote this press release.