Barry Coulter
Contrary to rumours you may have heard, the Canadian Cancer Society in Cranbrook is not closing, it has just moved offices — half a block down the street from its previous location. And its all action all the time as the CCS is entering its busiest month of what has already been a very busy and successful year.
"We've moved, and we're stronger than ever," said Jenn Smith, Community Giving Coordinator for the CCS in Cranbrook. "We're small but mighty, and we're continuing to use our donors' dollars wisely."
The Cancer Society is hosting an open house Wednesday, April 13, from 1 – 4 pm, at the office at 105 - 9th Ave South, Unit # 202. Everyone is invited to attend, to help celebrate Daffodil Month, which is in full swing.
"All the cut flowers and daffodil pots sold in record time and pin boxes can be found all over the community," Smith said.
Smith said that 2016 is shaping up to be a very successful year.
"Our first fundraiser of the year Slopes For Hope at Kimberley Alpine Resort and the Kimberley Nordic Centre brought in $25,000."
Besides the open house, next week will also feature Celebrity Street team Daffodil pin sales — also Wednesday, April 13, from noon to 1 p.m., at Baker Street and 10th Avenue South, with Matt Van Boeyen and Katie Murray of The Drive and Lily Durham of The Advertiser. And Coles Books fundraiser will be held Thursday April 21, from 6 -9 pm, at Coles Books in the Tamarack Centre Mall.
And the CCS is still looking for volunteers to head up our Soggy Otter adventure Race. Call the CCS for more info.
But the Cancer Society is gearing up for its major fundraiser of the year in Cranbrook, the Relay for Life. The CCS is building on the momentum generated by a very success Relay in 2015 — the first year the event was held in Rotary Park in downtown Cranbrook.
"Relay is one of the major fundraising events that we have in the East Kootenay," Smith said. "2015 raised $69,375 and we hope to beat that this year. Realizing that some people struggle with fundraising we have made it easier for participants this year."
For example, the Society has set up a raffle for a trip to Disneyland, and registered participants in the Relay can sell these raffle tickets as a way to fundraise.
2016 marks the 17th Anniversary of Relay In Cranbrook and Kimberley. This year the Relay For Life is set for June 4, 4:30 – 10:30 in Rotary Park, downtown Cranbrook. This year's theme is "Star Wars —May The Fight Be With You." Entertainment includes a dance showcase, The McHoodi's', MBSS Vocal Jazz and more. Mr. Mikes will be flipping burgers, Canadian 2 for 1 will serve up slices of pizza. Survivors walk, and fun activities are scheduled all day, ending with the Luminary ceremony.
"The decision last year switching to the six hour format was very successful, we received lots of great feedback about the central location and the shorter time frame worked great for families," Smith said.
Participants can register in the Relay as an individual or a team, only $15 per person. Register at www.relayforlife.ca. There is no registration fee for Survivors. Whether you are currently going through treatment or cancer free, you are a survivor and Relay is there to support you.
For more information, call 250-426-8916 (or toll-free 1-800-656-6426).