Every year, hundreds of volunteers from across Chilton County funnel their time and energy toward raising money to find a cure for cancer.

The annual Chilton County Relay For Life kick-off will be Tuesday, Jan. 11 at the LeCroy Career/Tech conference center at 5:30 p.m.

The meeting is essential to those who wish to build upon their past efforts, start a new team, or simply learn information about Relay.

“Everyone is welcome,” said Relay volunteer Jerry Grooms, who is helping to oversee logistics and entertainment. “There will be food to eat.”

This year’s fundraising goal will be announced during the kick-off, Grooms said. In 2010, the local chapter of Relay For Life raised nearly $200,000 for the American Cancer Society, easily surpassing its goal of $175,000.

Those in attendance Tuesday will also learn how to form a team, some dos and don’ts of fundraising, ideas for fundraising methods and more. Free team packets will also be available.
“If anyone wants to start a team, they need to be there,” Grooms said.

One highlight of the evening will be a silent auction featuring donated items for the benefit of Relay. Anyone can bring items to donate for auction, Grooms said. Examples of items include purses, jewelry or dishes.

There is no admission to attend the kickoff. Those who want to get a head start and register their team online may do so at relayforlife.org/chilton.

The 2011 Chilton County Relay for Life is scheduled to begin April 29 at 6 p.m. at the Clanton City Park youth league football field.

The event will last all night, concluding at 6 a.m. April 30.

For more information, call Grooms at 755-6795, chairwoman Ann Glasscock at 389-1577 or Robert Griffin at 755-5185.