The Miami Lakes Relay for Life event not only exceeded its fundraising goal for the March 25 event at Optimist Park, it was the first community organization in Miami-Dade County to meet its goal. This year’s goal, $20,000, was raised by 22 registered teams that included local businesses, schools, individuals, local associations and their donors, all of whom wanted to participate in the fight against cancer.
The event featured face painting, snow cones, popcorn, games, bounce houses and more. A variety of performers generously donated their time and talent and a guest appearance by Billy the Marlin was well received by all.
The leadership team was comprised of chair Gloria Garcia, honorary chair Mayor Manny Cid and co-honorary chairs Vice Mayor Tony Lama and Councilmembers Tim Daubert, Nelson Rodriguez, Ceasar Mestre, Frank Mingo and Luis Collazo, Entertainment chair Lynn Matos and Fundraising chair Dawn Remick and Phillip Rarick. This team worked diligently to secure donations and coordinate this event.
Troop 660 posted the colors and Pastor Stuart Bodin gave an invocation to kick off the event with a survivor lap. This year the emotional lighting of a HOPE sign closed off the event. A proclamation was presented to Garcia by Cid and councilmembers on behalf of the leadership team that declared March 25th as Relay for Life Day.
“We are extremely grateful to our many sponsors, survivors, performers, volunteers, team members and to the support of our town and town staff that made this success possible,” said Garcia. “It is wonderful to see a community come together for a day in the fight against cancer.”
Relay of Miami Lakes is planning a post Relay party on April 20 to celebrate this year's success with many raffle items available. For more information follow on Facebook at Relay for Life of Miami Lakes.