Relay For Life events raise over $1 million All proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society

Once again, generous communities across Berks-County have come together to raise over $1 Million for the American Cancer Society.285 teams and 3,837 people participated in 7 community and 1 collegiate American Cancer Society Relay For Life events this May and June, raising a total of $1,051,653 from September 1st 2015 to August 31st, 2016. These funds help the American Cancer Society save lives through groundbreaking cancer research, education and risk reduction efforts, and free information and critical services for people with cancer who need them.

Berks County consistently strives for that million-dollar mark. In 2015 they received the Nationwide Number One Per Capita Award for counties with a population of 250,000 to 500,000. Although they typically rank in the top ten, that was the first time they received top honors. They are still waiting for their 2016 national ranking.

“Although the people of Berks County may not be rich in dollars, they are rich in caring,” said Amy Miller, American Cancer Society staff partner for 3 of the 8 events. “To see what these volunteers achieve year after year is so inspiring. They are creative, passionate, and unrelentingly determined to make a difference for those who are facing cancer.”

Diamond Credit Union returned in 2016 as the Countywide Presenting Sponsor, donating funds to each Relay event and coordinating a company team that raised over $22,000 for the Relay For Life of Western Berks. Countless other businesses, churches, organizations, and schools created teams or sponsored their local event. As a National Corporate Team Partner, Redner’s Markets formed 6 teams throughout the county and raised over $53,000.

The Relay For Life movement unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all. Relay For Life events are community gatherings where teams and individuals camp out at a school or park and take turns walking or running around a path. Teams raise funds throughout the year. Relay For Life is the world’s largest fundraising event to fight every cancer in every community, with four million participants in 6,000 events worldwide in 2015.

To get involved with your local Relay For Life as a donor, participant, sponsor, or volunteer, visit relayforlife. org or call 610.921.2329 option 3.