Relay for Life Kick-Off Event Wednesday

If you're looking to contribute to a cause, considering participating in Gilroy's 2012 Relay for Life event, set to take place on June 23 at the Christmas Hill Ranch.

The annual event attracts hundreds of participants, who partake in the 24-hour walk-a-thon for the purpose of raising money for cancer research.

To prepare for June's event, Gilroy volunteers, in partnership with the American Cancer Society, are throwing a to kick-off the 2012 season on Wednesday night at Fortino Winery.

"Guests are welcome, so please bring a friend or two with you. The more relayers we have, the more lives are saved," wrote Manuel Haro of Gilroy's Relay for Life committee.

The event offers an opportunity for potential and seasoned participants to acquire information about June's event.

"You'll learn what it takes to lead a team, and more about what's in store for our 2012 event," Haro wrote.

Committee members will educate attendees about how to create a team of participants, and will also release the amount of money they raised from their relay last year.

"They make up their own name, their own teams, and each team can be as many participants as they want it to be," said Kristin Blomquist of Gilroy's Relay for Life committee.

As of now, Gilroy's Relay for Life committee has 41 participants and 18 teams registered for June's event.

Blomquist said they're shooting for a minimum of 50 teams, and are hoping to raise around $50,000 to contribute to cancer research. As of now, they've raised $385 according to Gilroy's Relay for Life website.

Although the event is a great way to acquire information about Relay for Life, it's also a time to socialize with fellow Gilroyans.

"We're going to have some excitement around it," Blomquist said.

Blomquist said there will be potluck-style food provided by Gilroy's Relay for Life committee. There will also be raffles with prizes, and of course wine.

For more information about Gilroy's Relay for Life event, or to sign-up for June's relay, click here. Additional information can be found on their Facebook page.

What: Gilroy's Relay for Life Kick-off event

When: Wednesday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m.

Where: Fortino's Winery, located at 4525 Hecker Pass Hwy. in Gilroy.