While the 2008 Relay For Life celebration at Mariner High School will offer Cape Coral residents a chance to re-enact scenes and characters from their favorite movie while raising money for cancer research, organizers say that more volunteers are needed before the event begins on April 4.

According to Donna Germain, the volunteer recruitment chair for this year’s celebration, there are currently 15 volunteers who have signed up and more are needed before the event opens.

“We need 40 more volunteers before the event,” said Germain. “Relay For Life is such a special community event and we cannot do it without the help of volunteers.” 

The volunteers needed will work in all aspects of the event planning, she said. The activities include setting up the event, assisting with logistics, cleaning up trash, distributing banners for teams and sponsors and cleaning up after the entire event.

This year’s relay is centered around a “Movie Magic” theme, and its focus will be on colon cancer, a form of cancer that can be easily prevented through regular screenings.

During the event, more than 90 teams consisting of 10 to 15 volunteers will circle the track for more than 18 hours raising money for cancer research. Volunteers can also sell raffle tickets, jewelry, food and games to raise more money.

Each of teams will stay at Mariner High School at campsites that will be decorated after Disney or Pixar films. Awards will be given for the best campsite, as well as best self-designed T-shirt, best movie costume and best spirit stick.

A highlight of the relay is the Luminaria Ceremony at 9 p.m. on April 4, when luminaria bags are illuminated next to the track to honor those who survived cancer and those who have passed away.

A large majority of the Relay For Life event is organized by volunteers.

For more information about becoming a volunteer, contact Germain at donna@capecoralchamber.com or call 458-4894.