A dinner Tuesday night will celebrate the lives of local cancer survivors and their caregivers.

"The Hope Dinner is such an amazing event," said Nicole Stewart, chairwoman of Dawson County's Relay for Life event. "It's our time to celebrate all survivors and caregivers in Dawson County."

The American Cancer Society invites community members affected by the disease and their guests to dinner at Dawson County High School in preparation for Dawson County's Relay for Life event that will be held later this month.

The event will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Reservations are requested by calling (770) 297-1220.

Survivors are also asked to participate in the opening lap at Relay for Life in Dawson County that will be held from 11 a.m.-10 p.m. May 14 at the Dawsonville Municipal Complex/Georgia Racing Hall of Fame.

The American Cancer Society's signature activity, Relay for Life is a fundraiser that supports cancer research.

The event gives cancer survivors and supporters a chance to unite as a community to honor survivors, raise awareness of reducing cancer risks and collect funds to help the American Cancer Society.

As of Tuesday afternoon, 26 teams featuring 202 volunteer participants have raised nearly $20,000 toward the county's 2016 goal of $50,000.

For more information about Relay for Life or to sign up, visit www.relayforlife.org/dawsoncountyga.