The American Cancer Society is announces the kick off to its 8th annual Relay For Life of North Kitsap. A Kick-Off Rally takes place 1-4 p.m. Jan 24 at The Zone in Poulsbo to mark the beginning of another successful year in the fight against cancer. Cancer survivors, caregivers, families, and friends are invited to join in the festivities and pay tribute to those who have lost their battle with cancer.

The American Cancer Society Relay For Life of North Kitsap is an overnight community celebration. Teams and individuals camp out, barbecue, dance, and take turns walking around a track “relay-style” to raise funds to fight cancer. These participants work year-round to celebrate cancer survivors, remember their loved ones lost, and fight back through fundraising.

“Last year, we raised over $115,000, hosted 32 teams, 320 participants, and honored more than 60 survivors,” said Kim Poole, event chair. “Our volunteer committee has set the bar high for 2009 though, with goals of 50 teams, raising $140,000 and honoring 100 survivors.”

To join the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of North Kitsap, contact Kim Poole at (360) 535-8099 or kimlpoole@comcast.net.

The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 with a national headquarters in Atlanta, the society has local offices in 3,400 communities involving millions of volunteers across the U.S. For more information, call (800) ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.