Volunteering for SFU Relay for Life

Canadian Cancer Society’s signature fundraising event – Relay for Life brings together communities to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and empower individuals to fight. It is an event full of fun, friendship, and fundraising to beat cancer! Relay for Life at SFU is a 12-hour affair where students, staff, alumni etc. form teams and are up all night running or walking the track while enjoying food, entertainment and participating in activities, all organized by SFU students.

Volunteering for SFU Relay For Life is a very memorable and rewarding experience. There are various roles that students can get involved in, based on their unique skills and talents, ranging from leadership chair to event day volunteer. For the past two years, I have volunteered as one of the members of the organizing committee. Duties can range from planning ceremonies, to registering teams, to getting food sponsored for the event etc. Being on the organizing committee for Relay for Life gave me the chance to develop my leadership skills, plan and execute successful events, and most of all, to bring the SFU community together for a common goal, to beat cancer.

A highlight of volunteering at Relay for Life is the luminary ceremony where all those who have battled cancer are honoured. It can be a moment of pride for cancer survivors who can reflect on their journey, but also bring up a sense of sadness and grief, as those who lost their battles are remembered. It is a very touching and meaningful ceremony as it puts everything into perspective and allows one to cherish and be thankful for all the blessings in life.

Planning Relay for Life is a long-term commitment, at approximately 4-6 hours per weeks for six months. Spirit is key for relay success. If you have the heart and passion for this cause, and want to make an enormous contribution to the fight against cancer then planning Relay can be a lot of fun! Moreover, it showcases to future employers or grad school admission committees that you are willing to dedicate time to long-term projects.

Here is your chance for to plan and enjoy an evening of fun activities, honour those who have won the battle and remember those lost. It is an educational opportunity to learn more about cancer, early detection, screening and prevention. It is also a way for you to make a positive difference in the lives of people living with cancer.

Beyond the Article:

• Learn more about Relay For Life here
• Apply to be a part of SFU Relay For Life Organizing Committee here
• Like SFU Relay For Life Facebook for other event day volunteer opportunities 

Lead Image: creative-commons licensed photo by Cja 711, Wikimedia Commons user

Manal Masud is a third year student studying Biomedical Physiology and Psychology at SFU. She enjoys volunteering, running, cooking and reading in her spare time. Connect with Manal on LinkedIn to learn about her volunteer and career endeavours.