Editor's note: In the weeks leading up to Relay for Life, Dawson Community News will feature stories of hope, survivorship and fundraising events intended to increase cancer awareness in the community.
The series will also include articles on prevention, early detection and treatment options.

For as long as employees can recall, United Community Bank has supported Relay for Life in Dawson County.

This year, the United Community Bank team will kick off its effort to raise $1,500 with a spaghetti dinner March 23.

For $5 a plate, the meal includes a serving of spaghetti, a salad, bread and a homemade dessert.

Tickets are now on sale for the event at both local branches.

Plates can be picked up from 5-7 p.m. March 23 at the 400 branch, located at 6372 Highway 53 East, Dawsonville.

"Relay is an event that is easy to get people on board for, because so many of us have been affected in some way by cancer," said team captain Kara Hewatt. "Just knowing that the funds we raise helps bring us closer to a cure, is all the motivation we need to support Relay for Life."

The team also plans to hold several other fundraisers leading up to Relay for Life, a celebration of survivorship that raises money for cancer research and programs.

"Other than the upcoming spaghetti dinner, we plan to have an Easter themed raffle which will kickoff at the spaghetti dinner, we will be selling T-shirts, hosting a bake sale and having a tent at Relay," Hewatt said.

Held overnight May 18 at Veterans Memorial Park, Relay for Life will feature an estimated 35 teams that set up booths offering fun for the entire family. Team members also take turns walking or running laps around the track throughout the night to show support for the cause.

Organizers hope this year to raise $90,000 overall.

Teams can still sign up to participate by calling Suzanne Hendricks at (770) 297-1176, Ext. 29062.