With the start of a new year, Relay For Life of Thurston County Presented by Peak Credit Union is steadfast in its mission: “To end cancer as we know it, for everyone.” Through Relay For Life, communities band together in support of the American Cancer Society. Throughout the year there are many ways to support the cause. On February 7, 2026, Relay For Life of Thurston County Presented by Peak Credit Union will be hosting a 2026 Kick Off Celebration at Applebee’s Grill + Bar in West Olympia, where attendees can enjoy a pancake breakfast, learn more about Relay and meet local Relay leadership.
The 2025 Relay For Life of Thurston County Draws Widespread Community Support
The American Cancer Society has helped to make significant headway in cancer awareness and outcomes, leading the way in longtime research funding, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network and support programs. This includes the Road To Recovery program, which makes care more accessible through free transportation for treatment-related medical visits, and Hope Lodge Communities, which offer free accommodations for cancer patients and caregivers who travel for treatment.
Through its history, the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life has raised more than $7 billion for the cause. And since 1990, Relay For Life of Thurston County has raised more than $9.5 million for the American Cancer Society through generous support from the community.
And on the weekend of June 21, 2025, Relay For Life of Thurston County Presented by Peak Credit Union was larger than ever, complete with a “Relay Like Its 1985” theme to commemorate Relay For Life’s 40th anniversary. Despite the weekend’s consistent drizzle, the community showed up in force for a steady schedule of activities, tunes, themed laps and attire that invoked 80’s nostalgia.
A top fundraising team, Connolly’s Crew, set up a Delorean at their campsite, with an accompanying newspaper display that outlined team and Relay milestones. The event also allowed time for connection and reflection, especially during the Opening Ceremony, and in the evening at the Luminaria Ceremony. In support and solidarity with cancer survivors, a small handful of Relayers also made a commitment to walk for the entire 22 hour event. In the coming years, there are hopes to continue this “22 Hour Club,” and invite additional participants to walk for the span of the Relay.
The 2025 Relay For Life of Thurston County Presented by Peak Credit Union well surpassed its $500,000 goal, raising a total of $556,178. and receiving national recognition as the fifth largest Relay event in the United States, in terms of fundraising for the year.
Relay For Life of Thurston County Kick Off Celebration is on February 7
This year, Relay For Life of Thurston County Presented by Peak Credit Union plans to reach new heights with the help of local volunteers, sponsors, fundraising teams and Relayers. With a fundraising goal of $600,000 for 2026, the year has started off strong, already recording more than $81,000 for the cause.
The 2026 Kick Off Celebration will start at 9 a.m. and feature a menu of breakfast favorites like pancakes, sausage and eggs. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP by January 28, or pay a $5 entry fee at the door. All are welcome to attend, including those who have never attended a Relay For Life event. The Kick Off Celebration is an ideal place to connect with the community, learn more about volunteer opportunities, plans for the upcoming year and the steps to starting a Relay For Life fundraising team.
The 2026 Relay For Life of Thurston County Presented by Peak Credit Union is set to start on June 20 at North Thurston High School. This year’s theme will be “Relay Under the Big Top,” evoking memories of carnivals and circus tents just in time for summer.
More than 100 volunteershelp put on the local Relay for Life each year, and there are a wide range of opportunities available. Relay For Life of Thurston County Presented by Peak Credit Union welcomes community members who are interested in leadership, and helping to grow the event in future years. This includes a team of volunteers who help with planning and preparation in the months leading up to Relay. There are also day-of event volunteers who help to set up and tear down the event each June. Fundraising teams are another core part of Relay For Life, hosting special events, engaging the community and raising money for the cause.
To learn more about the Kick Off Celebration, visit the Relay For Life of Thurston County Facebook event. To learn more about volunteer opportunities and upcoming fundraising events, visit the Relay For Life of Thurston County website.
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