By SALINA POST
The Relay For Life of Saline County has successfully exceeded its 2024 fundraising goal, raising an impressive $50,158 to support cancer research and vital services provided by the American Cancer Society. The annual walk, held on June 22nd at Kansas Wesleyan University, saw the local community come together for a day filled with activities that offered hope and support for those impacted by cancer.
The volunteer-led event featured live music, guest speakers, a survivor celebration led by bagpipes, performances by local dance and twirling troupes, a silent auction, and a special dessert bar for cancer survivors and caregivers. One of the highlights of the event was the moving luminaria ceremony, which honored both cancer survivors and those lost to the disease.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated, donated, and volunteered to make this year’s Relay a success,” organizers said. Special recognition was given to key event sponsors, including Schwan’s, JRI Hospitality, Holm Automotive, Pinion, Iron Insurance Partners, and Norton, Wasserman, Jones & Kelly. Sunflower Bank was also highlighted as the event’s Promise Sponsor.
As Relay for Life of Saline County looks forward to 2025, the organization is inviting the public to join them for a Kickoff Open House on Monday, October 28th, from 5:30 to 7:00 PM at Iron Insurance Partners, located at 201 E Iron Ave. Attendees will learn how to get involved in the 2025 Relay, which will mark 40 years of the movement, and can register to form teams, discover new fundraising opportunities, and participate in door prize drawings. The evening will also feature refreshments and the reveal of the 2025 event theme.
Relay for Life has raised nearly $7 billion since its inception in 1985, and next year’s event is expected to continue building on that legacy. To learn more about the 2025 Relay for Life season and how to participate, visit the Relay for Life website or the Saline County Relay Facebook page.
For additional information, visit http://relay.org/salinecoks or Facebook.