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.

Dawson County Park and Rec is now accepting early registrations for several events planned in April to support Relay for Life.

Proceeds from a carwash, one-pitch softball tournament and moonlit 5K will benefit the parks' Relay for Life Team.

Relay for Life is an overnight event that raises funds for the American Cancer Society. Dawson County's celebration is May 18 at Veterans Memorial Park.

Team Captain Kris Rowan said each member of the park and rec team has been affected by cancer and they wanted to give toward finding a cure.

"Just about every one of us on the team has lost a family member to cancer," Rowan said. "We decided this was our time to do this."

Originally, the group set its fundraising goal at $1,500, but now anticipates collecting more with several events planned to support the cause.

"We started out with a low goal because this is our first year as a team, but we are hoping to raise much more than $1,500," Rowan said.

The team plans to offer several carnival style games throughout the night of Relay for Life.

"We'll have a football toss and they'll be able to throw baseballs at cans," Rowan said. "We're also talking about bringing out some jumping houses to give the little children activities to do that night."

In addition to more than 30 booths offering food and fun for the entire family, Relay for Life teams make laps around the track throughout the night to show their support and celebrate survivorship while raising money for cancer research and programs.

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

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