Enjoy food, prize drawings, games and camaraderie as the community celebrates, shares memories, and begins the festivities for this year’s third annual Relay for Life.

The Orcas Island Relay for Life Kick Off will be on Saturday, Feb. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Orcas Island High School. Community members who’d like to support this year’s relay can attend the kick-off to learn more about the event. Organizers are especially looking for volunteers to join the relay committee.

The theme this year is aligned with the American Cancer Society’s nationwide message of helping people stay healthy, live longer and celebrate more birthdays.

The Relay for Life will be held on July 16. Organized by the American Cancer Society, the event gives islanders a chance to battle cancer by raising both funds and public awareness. The relay will be a time to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. Teams of people will camp out on the Orcas high school field and take turns walking or running the track. A first ceremonial “survivor lap” allows survivors to celebrate their journeys, while inspiring and motivating others to fight. In the evening, as darkness falls, family and friends will light luminaria bearing the names of loved ones who have battled cancer. Local talent will fill the evening with music to while away the hours. Each team will have a representative on the track at all times during the 24-hour event, in recognition of the urgency of combating the disease.

To join the fun, visit the American Cancer Society website www.relayforlife.org and click “Get Involved” to find the Orcas Island event. The site allows you to donate, start or join a team, or sign up as a survivor to walk the first “survivors lap” only.