Cancer never takes a rest, and neither will a team of students, faculty, and friends from the Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) chapter of Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) as they join with other teams from the Southwest Valley to raise funds for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life in Goodyear, AZ, on October 4th and 5th. Other Relay for Life events are scheduled throughout the Valley; however, this event marks the only West Valley location.
A tribute lap for cancer survivors and caregivers kicks off the event at 9 a.m. Relay teams will lap the track at Estrella Mountain Ranch's Estrella Foothills High School, 13033 S. Estrella Parkway, for 24 hours, without a stop, beginning on October 4 to find a cure for cancer.
Team members raise money through entrance fees, solicited donations, and sale of luminarias to honor those who have battled cancer. Food sales, games, and other fund-raising activities are planned throughout the event. All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society's research and patient outreach programs. The public is invited to come share in the fun and support the fundraising effort.
"This is a chance for our group to bring students, staff and faculty together to perform service for our community and benefit a worthy cause at the same time," said PTK Director of Communications, Columbia Lloyd.
The EMCC PTK team is sponsored in its fundraising efforts by Glow Putt Productions miniature golf course at 7611 W. Thomas Rd. in Phoenix.
Relay For Life began 18 years ago as one man's statement in the fight against cancer and has led to the development of a worldwide event to help banish cancer. The event has grown to touch 3,800 communities in the United States and eight foreign countries.
Phi Theta Kappa is the international honors society for two-year colleges. EMCC, a Maricopa Community College, has been home to a 5-Star PTK Chapter, Beta Alpha Xi, since 1995.